Arizona’s Medicaid Changes Could Risk People Losing Their Coverage
The state of Arizona is reaching out to more than 400,000 residents ahead of the biggest changes to AHCCCS in the program’s nearly 50-year history.
According to the Arizona Republic, the biggest changes to Medicaid under the new law are new work requirements and two annual coverage renewals. Some people will need to submit evidence they are working, volunteering or schooling for 80 hours a month.
The state rolled out a new website to help people navigate the new federal requirements.
In a press release announcing the website last week, AHCCCS interim director Roberta Harrison said the agency’s priority was giving people access to reliable, clear information.
“Because nearly 417,000 Arizonans may be affected, we are committed to providing a trusted resource that helps members understand what these changes mean, determine whether they may qualify for an exemption, and learn what steps they may need to take to maintain their healthcare coverage,” the release stated.
The state faced challenges in implementing new SNAP requirements and that has raised questions about its ability to efficiently manage the new Medicaid requirements.
The Arizona Center for Economic Progress reported the state may not be fully prepared by the time the requirements kick in on January 1, meaning that once again, a significant administrative change could cause normally eligible people to lose benefits.
“You’ve got to recruit the people, decide who you’re going to hire, hire them and get them ready for the thick of it in January,” warned Will Humble, executive director of the Arizona Public Health Association.
The group warned about the logistical hurdles in April.
“Update your address with AHCCCS,” he said. “If you don’t do that, your redetermination notice is going to go to your old house. When you do get the notices, make sure you respond quickly. Get your Health-e-Arizona account all fixed and squared away and use it every month. You’re going to need that to submit your community engagement reqs next year.”
Finally, he warns, “for those in the expansion population, go find some way to comply. Go work at a food bank 80 hours a month.”
NAHAP 