600,000 Arizonans Could Lose Medicaid Coverage
What Employers Need to Know
An estimated 600,000 Arizonans are at risk of losing their Medicaid coverage now that the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) and Medicaid continuous enrollment will be ending. During the PHE, states generally could not disenroll Medicaid participants.
Starting April 1, 2023, and continuing through July 13, 2024, many people will no longer qualify for Medicaid because of the redetermination (eligibility verification) process. About 40% of those losing Medicaid coverage are projected to be eligible for employer-sponsored plans, according to industry research.
As an employer, here’s what you need to know:
- Losing Medicaid coverage is a qualifying event. Employers are generally required to offer a special enrollment period to eligible, affected employees.
- Individuals who are disenrolled in Medicaid may be eligible to sign up for coverage through the ACA Marketplace or Medicare.
- Communicating information about redetermination to your employees is critical to help avoid a lapse in coverage. Studies show that uninsured individuals are less likely to seek or receive care, especially preventive care. This may lead to a decline in health, increased absenteeism, decreased productivity, and ultimately higher costs for employers.
- Detailed Medicaid FAQs can be found at www.azahcccs.gov/Renewals (bottom of page)
We at Ronstadt Insurance, LLC are here to help you and your employees find the right plan if they lose Medicaid coverage. In addition to your employer-sponsored plan, click here for ACA Marketplace plans for individuals and families. If you have questions, please contact us at 520-721-4848 for more information.
