ACA Health Insurance: Maintaining Coverage After the Public Health Emergency

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on health insurance coverage in the United States. The public health emergency (PHE) declaration allowed many Americans to maintain their Medicaid coverage even if they no longer qualified due to income changes. However, as the PHE winds down, millions of people may lose their Medicaid coverage.

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a government-funded health insurance program for low-income individuals and families. It is administered by individual states, so eligibility requirements and benefits vary from state to state. In general, Medicaid covers essential health benefits, such as doctor’s visits, hospitalizations, and prescription drugs.

Impact of the Public Health Emergency on Medicaid

The PHE declaration allowed states to expand Medicaid eligibility and waive certain enrollment requirements. As a result, many people who would not have previously qualified for Medicaid were able to obtain coverage. Additionally, states were required to keep people on Medicaid even if they no longer met the income or eligibility requirements.

What to Do if You Lose Medicaid

If you lose your Medicaid coverage, you have several options to obtain health insurance:

Apply for Marketplace coverage: The Health Insurance Marketplace, also known as Obamacare, offers health insurance plans to individuals and families who do not have access to employer-sponsored coverage. You may qualify for premium subsidies if your income is within certain limits.
Explore employer-sponsored coverage: If you are employed, check if your employer offers health insurance. Some employers offer health insurance to part-time employees or employees who work variable hours.
Consider private insurance: You can also purchase health insurance directly from a private insurance company. However, private insurance can be more expensive than Medicaid or Marketplace coverage.

Additional Considerations

Seek assistance: If you are struggling to find affordable health insurance, you can contact a licensed insurance agent or a community health center for assistance.
Appeal your Medicaid termination: You have the right to appeal if you believe you have been wrongly terminated from Medicaid.
Stay informed: Monitor the latest updates on the PHE and Medicaid eligibility.

It is important to remember that health insurance is essential for protecting your health and well-being. If you are at risk of losing your Medicaid coverage, do not hesitate to explore your options and seek assistance if needed.