According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, COVID is no longer considered a Public Health Emergency. As a result, people covered by Medicaid during the pandemic may lose their benefits.
People must be proactive if they want to retain their benefits. The State of Pennsylvania requires all Medicaid patients to go through a renewal process to see if they are eligible. A renewal application can be filed online, by mail, by telephone, and in person.
Why is Eligibility Changing?
Healthcare systems became more flexible during the pandemic to extend care to vulnerable groups. Emergency waivers, regulations, and sub-regulatory guidelines were put in place to make care more accessible and to ensure providers could meet healthcare needs. Now that the health emergency is over, there is no need for expanded care, and many of these waivers and regulations will no longer be effective.
The end of the Public Health Emergency doesn’t necessarily mean you will lose your benefits. Many waivers ended on May 11, 2023, but others will remain active for six months after the emergency ends. Some waivers and flexibilities may stay in place indefinitely, including those that cover community-based and home-based care.
Visit the CMS Waivers, Flexibilities, and the End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency PDF for more details.
How to Keep Your Medicaid Benefits
Individuals who wish to maintain their Medicaid benefits must go through the renewal process. The process involves:
- Update your information on the COMPASS website or by calling 877-395-8930 or 215-560-7226.
- Renew your benefits by filling out the renewal forms mailed to you, completing renewal forms on the COMPASS website, or renewing by phone by calling 866-550-4355.
What If I Need Help Renewing My Medicaid Insurance?
Several resources are available for individuals who need assistance filling out their Medicaid renewal forms. These include:
- PA.Gov and COMPASS
- Pennsylvania Department of Human Services- Call 877-395-8930 or 215-560-7226
- Pennsylvania Health Action Network helpline- Call 877-570-3642 or contact by email at helpline@pahealthaccess.com
- Call Philadelphia 311
- AmeriBest 800-HOMECARE
What Can I Do if I Lose My Benefits?
If you lose your benefits, the Pennsylvania government offers other low-cost healthcare alternatives accessible through the state’s Pennie.com marketplace. If you have children under 19, you may also explore options at chipcoverspakids.com.
AmeriBest Home Care Can Help
At AmeriBest, we understand you may be confused during this trying time. We are here to help. Call us at 1800-HOMECARE or read more here.
We will assist you in navigating the renewal and application process. We will ensure you have access to the high-quality care you deserve.
