What is happening in 2023-2024 with Medi-cal/Medicaid?

Medicaid Unwinding

In March 2020, Congress provided additional Medicaid funding to states as part of COVID-19 relief legislation. States had to meet certain requirements, including a “continuous coverage” provision that prevented most Medicaid enrollees’ coverage from being terminated during the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Since the PHE expired in May 2023, states are starting the process of “unwinding” by reviewing Medicaid eligibility.

It is estimated between 15 and 18 million people will lose Medicaid coverage during this process. Affected individuals have a special enrollment period that lasts until July 2024 to explore other coverage options. Approximately four million people could qualify for employer-based insurance plans. Employers should communicate this to all employees enrolled in Medicaid that could be affected by the unwinding process before open enrollment starts this fall. A licensed insurance agent specialized in Medicare will be able to provide information about private health insurance or Medicare-related products to those affected.