May 8—Pennsylvania residents who rely on Medicaid for health care insurance will once again have to reapply to continue getting coverage.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government allowed states to continue providing Medicaid coverage for most people even if they were no longer eligible to receive those benefits. Having the policy in place meant people weren't required to reapply for coverage each year, as they previously had to do.
But the federal policy ended in March, meaning people with Medicare will have to start filling out applications once again to keep their insurance.
While nobody will lose their coverage right away, Pennsylvania's Acting Secretary of Human Services Dr. Val Arkoosh is spreading the word that all Pennsylvanians who use Medicaid will need to reapply for coverage over the next year or risk losing their health insurance.
Arkoosh, a former Montgomery County commissioner, was joined by local officials Monday during a visit to the Berks Community Health Center on Rockland Street in Reading to discuss how the state is working with community partners to help Berks residents maintain health coverage in light of the change to Medicaid renewal.
"We need to ensure that we reach everyone across our commonwealth who needs to redetermine their eligibility for Medicaid," she said. "It's going to take all of us working together. No one of us is going to be able to get the job done successfully."
Arkoosh encouraged those who are currently enrolled in Medicaid to make sure they have all their contact information up to date because they will be hearing from the Department of Human Services several times ahead of their renewal date.
In fact, she said the state is ensuring people receive multiple direct messages starting 90 days before their renewal deadline via email, text and mailings informing them of the changes and how to reapply for Medicaid.
"Having health insurance gives people peace of mind knowing that when they need care it will be there for them when they need it," she said. "Every Pennsylvanian deserves access to affordable, quality health care that helps them live, work, play and thrive."
Berks Community Health Center President and CEO Mary Kargbo said she was pleased to host the important event since nearly 95% of their patients fall below the federal poverty line, and about 60% of those patients are covered through these vital insurance programs.
"We are committed to our community members and have people on staff to help with the process if they need help or have any questions," she said.