When PHE Ends, Let’s Ensure Texas Doesn’t Knock Eligible Kids Off Health Coverage

HERE’S THE SCENE WE NEED TO AVOID:

Frustrated, even desperate moms and dads around the state — later this year or early next year — stuck wondering why they can no longer take their teen to her mental health appointment or get a check-up for their toddler or afford their child’s medications.

BUT FIRST, A LITTLE BACKGROUND:

To help Texas get through the COVID-19 pandemic, over the last two years the federal government has pumped over $4 billion into our state in extra federal funding for Medicaid and CHIP. Under this “Public Health Emergency” policy, Texas and other states have also hit the pause button on removing kids and new moms from their Medicaid health insurance. 

This two-pronged policy — extra funding and continued health coverage — has been a huge benefit for Texas.

So last week, we were glad to learn that the federal government is likely to extend the Public Health Emergency declaration until this fall.

When this policy does end, and the state starts reviewing the eligibility of Texans enrolled in Medicaid, it will be the responsibility of our state leaders to ensure that Texans who are still eligible for health care are able to keep it.

HERE’S THE RUB:

Unfortunately, as the Texas Tribune reported last week, there are concerns that the state’s plan will lead to eligible Texans losing their health care. The state intends to process 3.7 million Medicaid renewals in just six months, while almost all other states are planning to take 9-12 months to ensure a more orderly process. With that rushed timeline — and the state’s current staff shortages, processing delays, wait times over an hour for phone calls, and other renewal system barriers — we’re concerned the process could turn chaotic and thousands of eligible kids will slip through the cracks.

HERE’S WHAT WE CAN DO TOGETHER:

1. Let’s keep working with our policymakers to improve the state’s plan and ensure the state doesn’t rush this important process. We appreciate that Texas health officials have been in a regular dialogue with stakeholders. We know they are working hard.
2. If you’re in touch with families enrolled in Medicaid, let them know that if they’ve moved, had a baby, or changed jobs, they should visit YourTexasBenefits.com to update their account. For more resources for communicating with families about this issue, take a look at the new Ambassador Toolkit released by the Health and Human Services Commission.

Thank you for working to ensure that Texans can keep seeing their doctor and stay healthy!