A coalition of healthcare organizations, led by the health insurance group AHIP, has come together to create a “one-stop shop” to support the millions of Americans facing Medicaid disenrollment as states review their benefits lists in the coming months.
The Insurance Connectivity Alliance is comprised of 16 associations representing health insurers, providers, and patients, including the Federation of American Hospitals, the American Healthcare Association, American Catholic Health and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, AHIP announced Thursday.
The groups have set up a website to connect Medicaid enrollees with resources to find out how the Medicaid redefining will affect them and where they can get alternative coverage, such as: such as from a health insurance exchange. The website also includes information for states and healthcare organizations to help them facilitate enrollment in alternative coverage.
According to data compiled by the Kaiser Family Foundation, between 5.3 million and 14.2 million people could lose Medicaid after states begin weeding out applicants who are no longer eligible but retain their rights. public health emergency benefit because of federal pandemic assistance for states that require ongoing coverage. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will allow states to begin phasing out their plans as soon as April 1.
Along with the union’s announcement, AHIP issued a state-by-state report outlining the impact of the redefinition. According to the insurance group, more than half of those who lose Medicaid coverage will enroll in employer-sponsored health plans, and more than 20% will be uninsured. CMS will establish a special enrollment period on health insurance exchanges to facilitate the transition from Medicaid to subsidized private insurance, which will last from March 31. 2023 to July 31, 2024.
Although the AHIP-led effort included representatives from Catholic and for-profit hospitals, the American Hospital Association and Essential Hospitals of America did not participate.
“The AHA is deeply committed to ensuring all individuals and families are enrolled in comprehensive health care coverage,” Molly Smith, the group’s vice president of public policy, said in a statement. We have been actively working with CMS, our member hospitals and health systems, and others to prepare for the Medicaid redetermination process to ensure that no one is incapacitated. important for insurance and care. We have reached out to the coalition and welcome additional support on this important issue.”
A spokesperson for America’s Essential Hospitals said the group of safety net providers was not required to join but “their members are often focused on reaching and connecting uninsured patients with insurance.” dangerous.”
Other members of the Insurance Connection Alliance are the American Welfare Council, the Arc of the United States, the Association of Community Affiliate Programs, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, the Cancer Aid Community, the Foundation. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Medicaid Health Plan of America, Mental Health of America, National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals, National Association of Community Health Centers, and UnidosUS.
