Millions of Medicaid Recipients Soon to Lose Federally-Funded Healthcare, as Pandemic-era Measures End

 By Yehudit Garmaise

 While most Americans rejoice at the idea that public health emergency of the Covid pandemic is winding down, approximately 15 million recipients of Medicaid will be forced to scramble for healthcare coverage in the coming months, as President Biden cuts emergency healthcare measures.

 Medicaid now covers approximately 79 million Americans, which is a record-high that is partly due to the federal government’s efforts to provide people access to free healthcare throughout the pandemic.

 The states will now begin to consider new incomes thresholds and other qualifications that determine whom is eligible for federally-funded healthcare.

 Throughout the Covid pandemic, Medicaid’s pandemic emergency measures provided lower-income Americans with free telehealth, which is online medical care, Covid treatments, and other generous offerings, however, those pandemic-era policies are set to end April 16: although many expect President Joe Biden to extend them until mid-July.

 As Medicaid decreases its coverage, many Americans are either not clear about their options or do not have the money to pay for them, said Matthew Buettgens, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute think tank, who added that many Americans feel anxious as they wonder what they will do when they and their loved ones get sick.

 The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, (CMS) is advising states only disenroll recipients slowly, while ensuring to connect them with other potential coverage.

 Most Americans who are no longer eligible for Medicaid are expected to qualify for other coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which is paid for by taxpayers and often called “Obamacare.”

 Children are eligible through the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

 Employers often also provide insurance, however, they may charge high premiums.

 “The uncertainty is certainly real,” Buettgens said.