ACA Expansion: More than 200 Rally at the Statehouse

Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been a controversial topic since its inception. In many states, the debate over whether or not to expand Medicaid has been heated, with proponents arguing that expansion would provide much-needed coverage to low-income individuals, while opponents contend that it would be too costly and would lead to lower quality of care.

In March 2014, more than 200 people rallied at the Kansas Statehouse in support of Medicaid expansion. The rally was organized by a coalition of healthcare providers, consumer advocates, and labor unions. Supporters of expansion argued that it would provide health coverage to an estimated 150,000 low-income Kansans, create jobs, and boost the state’s economy. However, Opponents of expansion argued that it would be too expensive and would lead to lower quality of care.

After more than five years of being a holdout, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed an executive order expanding Medicaid in the state in 2020. The expansion took effect in January 2021, providing health coverage to an estimated 150,000 low-income Kansans.

ACA Medicaid Expansion: What You Need to Know

What is Medicaid Expansion?

Medicaid expansion is a provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that allows states to expand their Medicaid programs to cover all low-income adults, regardless of whether they have children or disabilities. Before the ACA, Medicaid was only available to low-income children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Who is Eligible for Medicaid Expansion?

To be eligible for Medicaid expansion, you must be a low-income adult living in a state that has expanded Medicaid. Each state has specific income requirements for Medicaid expansion, but generally, you must have an income at or below 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). This equates to an annual income of about $18,754 for a single adult in 2023.

What Benefits are Included in Medicaid Expansion?

Medicaid expansion provides comprehensive health coverage, including:

– Doctor visits
– Hospital care
– Prescription drugs
– Mental health and substance abuse services
– Dental care
– Vision care

How Can I Apply for Medicaid Expansion?

If you think you may be eligible for Medicaid expansion, you can apply through your state’s Medicaid agency. You can find contact information for your state’s Medicaid agency on the website of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

The Benefits of Medicaid Expansion

Medicaid Expansion Provides Health Coverage to Low-Income Individuals.

Prior to Medicaid expansion, between 60,000 and 100,000 Kansans fell within a coverage gap, meaning they made too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid, but too little to qualify for subsidies to purchase insurance through the ACA’s health insurance marketplace. Without insurance, these individuals were unable to access affordable health care, and many went without needed care.

Medicaid Expansion Creates Jobs.

A study by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that Medicaid expansion would create jobs in the healthcare sector. The study estimated that Medicaid expansion would create 100,000 new jobs within three years.

Medicaid Expansion Boosts the Economy.

A study by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found that Medicaid expansion would boost the economy by increasing consumer spending. The study estimated that Medicaid expansion would increase consumer spending by $10 billion within three years.

The Concerns About Medicaid Expansion

Medicaid Expansion is Too Costly.

Opponents of Medicaid expansion argue that it is too costly. In 2021, CBO estimated that the federal government would spend $2.2 trillion on the Medicaid program over the next decade, including an additional $1.1 trillion over the next decade due to expansion. However, the federal government covers approximately 90% of costs associated with ACA Medicaid expansion through 2026.

Medicaid Expansion Will Lead to Lower Quality of Care.

Opponents of Medicaid expansion also argue that it will lead to lower quality of care. They contend that Medicaid expansion will increase the number of people covered by Medicaid, which will lead to longer wait times for appointments and less access to care. However, a study by the Commonwealth Fund found that Medicaid expansion has not led to lower quality of care. In fact, the study found that Medicaid expansion has actually led to improvements in quality of care.

The Bottom Line

Medicaid expansion is a complex issue with both benefits and drawbacks. However, the evidence suggests that Medicaid expansion provides health coverage to low-income individuals, creates jobs, and boosts the economy. As a result, Medicaid expansion is a net positive for states and the country as a whole.

If you are a low-income adult living in a state that has expanded Medicaid, you should consider applying for coverage. Medicaid expansion can provide you with the health coverage you need to stay healthy and productive.

If you are interested in learning more about Medicaid expansion, you can visit the website of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or contact your state’s Medicaid agency. Don’t forget, you are not alone. Many licensed agents can help you apply and understand ACA health insurance for your personal situation.