Yesterday, Governor Ferguson highlighted Washington’s proactive response to federal Medicaid changes in H.R. 1, signing an executive order aimed at helping eligible residents maintain access to health coverage and care. During a press conference, the Governor praised the collaboration among state agencies, health care providers and community organizations working to minimize disruptions for Apple Health enrollees.
The Governor and Health Care Authority Director Ryan Moran detailed significant efforts underway, including targeted outreach to enrollees, multilingual enrollment assistance and technology that will automate eligibility verification for many Apple Health recipients. Together, these actions will help thousands of Washingtonians maintain coverage despite new federal requirements.
The event also underscored the importance of strong health care partnerships. Eric Moll, CEO of Mason Health, and a member of WSHA’s executive committee, spoke and outlined the critical role hospitals play in helping patients navigate coverage changes while continuing to provide care to their communities. Eric emphasized that health care needs do not disappear with the loss of insurance coverage. The enormous impact of these cuts will be felt by all patients, not just those covered by Medicaid.
WSHA is grateful for the Governor’s leadership and the Health Care Authority’s tireless work to preserve coverage, protect access to care and support Washington’s health care system during a period of significant change. These efforts are striking: other states are taking the opposite approach and actively working to get people off Medicaid.
Hospital members can access resources to help navigate these changes by visiting the H.R. 1 Impacts & Resources page on WSHA’s website.
Sincerely,
Cassie Sauer
WSHA President & CEO
[email protected]