The last three years of the COVID-19 pandemic will likely be remembered as one of the defining eras of modern history. On the front lines of health care, it holds special significance. The public health emergency (PHE) that began in 2020 suspended many rules and regulations to ease burdens. This included allowing residents relying on Apple Health (Medicaid) to remain continuously enrolled in the program without needing to reverify their eligibility.
As the PHE expires, verification – known as Medicaid redetermination – has started to resume. The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) estimates that this will impact roughly 300,000 Apple Health clients. To help you guide your patients through this process, WSHA will host the webinar “How Hospitals Can Help Patients with Medicaid Redetermination” from 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, May 24. Register here to join us.
The (HCA) and the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) gradually resumed the certification process beginning in April. Apple Health clients should be sure to update their income and address to ensure that they are still eligible for the program. Providers and other members of hospital staff can help engage in outreach efforts by becoming a volunteer Apple Health Ambassador. (You can find more information about this program through the HCA.)
Please join us May 24 to learn more about the process and how you can support your community. We hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Chelene Whiteaker
WSHA Senior VP of Government Affairs
chelenew@wsha.org
