Can My Medicaid Eligibility Change

1. Can My Medicaid Eligibility Change? Medicaid provides healthcare coverage to eligible individuals and families. However, many wonder if their Medicaid eligibility can change over time. The short answer is yes—your eligibility for Medicaid can change due to various factors. Understanding these factors can help you keep your coverage or be prepared for any changes that may arise. What Changes Your Medicaid Eligibility? Specific requirements must be met to receive Medicaid. If any of these change, your coverage may be impacted. To anticipate any changes, you should ask yourself these questions: 1. Has My Income Changed? Medicaid is designed to assist those with limited income or resources. If you have experienced a change in your income, whether increased or decreased, this can impact your eligibility. Income Increases. If you receive a raise, start a higher-paying job, or gain additional income from other sources, your total household income might exceed the threshold, which may cause you to lose your coverage. ● Income Decreases. If you lose your job or get an income reduction, you may become eligible for Medicaid if you weren’t previously. ● 2. Has My Household Changed? The size of your household impacts your eligibility for Medicaid. This includes the number of people living in your household, including spouses, children, and other dependents. Adding Household Members. If you get married, have a child, or care for another dependent, your household size increases. If your household income falls within the thresholds for your household size, you may become eligible for Medicaid. ● Losing Household Members. Your eligibility status could be affected if someone in your household passes away, moves out, or you get a divorce. ● 3. Do I Currently Meet the Age Requirements? Your Medicaid eligibility may shift as you and your family members age. Specific Medicaid programs are meant for different age groups, such as children and elderly adults. Children Turning 19. Once a child turns 19, they may need to apply under ●

2. different eligibility criteria to receive coverage. Adults Turning 65. If you are 65 or older, you may become eligible for Medicare, which could also impact your ability to receive Medicaid. Some older adults qualify for dual eligibility to receive benefits from both programs. ● 4. Has My Disability Status Changed? Medicaid can provide healthcare coverage for individuals with disabilities. If your disability status has been decided and you begin receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may become eligible for Medicaid. In some states, those with disabilities are automatically qualified for Medicaid, while other states still require an application. 5. Have I Moved States Recently? Each state has its own eligibility criteria for Medicaid, so you may qualify in one state but not another. If you have moved or are planning to move, you should check the requirements to determine eligibility for coverage in the new state. Then, you will need to apply for Medicaid once you have moved. It is important to apply for Medicaid in your new state of residence quickly to avoid a lapse in coverage. However, you can always visit local Community Health Centers if you find yourself in need of quality medical care but are without insurance. Alongside these factors, Medicaid is subject to policy changes that can affect eligibility criteria. If your eligibility requirements have changed or you are unsure if you qualify for Medicaid, discussing it with an expert is recommended, as eligibility can vary greatly. They can help you find the right coverage option so you can receive quality care. Can I Get Care at a Federally Qualified Health Center? Determining your eligibility for Medicaid and other coverage options can seem challenging, especially if your income, household, or other determining factors have recently changed. However, those who do not have insurance, are underinsured, or are experiencing a lapse in coverage can still receive affordable healthcare at a Federally Qualified Health Center! What Services Do Community Health Centers Provide? These centers provide essential medical services, which can include primary care, vision and dental services, mental health and substance abuse support, and more. Health centers are widely accessible because they offer services on a sliding fee scale, so you will not be denied

3. care based on your insurance status or ability to pay. OKPCA: Advocating for Community Health Centers At the Oklahoma Primary Care Association, we advocate for our member health centers across the state so they can continue to serve Oklahoma communities. If you are searching for care, you are welcome to use our interactive map to find a health center in your community. For questions about your healthcare coverage options or to find care near you, please contact us.