Medicaid Work Requirements to Impact Thousands in New Mexico
New federal changes regarding Medicaid are set to introduce work requirements that could affect a large number of residents in New Mexico. Notices informing over 230,000 recipients of these new rules are expected to be mailed this week.
Alanna Dancis, the acting Medicaid director of the New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA), emphasized that the primary goal is to assist eligible New Mexicans in maintaining their health care coverage and the benefits they depend on.
On Monday, the HCA announced that these notices would provide details about the new work or activity requirements, which include an 80-hour monthly work condition, explanations of exemptions, and guidance on how recipients can update their information.
It’s important to note that while many Medicaid recipients will have to meet these work requirements to keep their coverage, receiving a notice does not equate to an automatic loss of eligibility. Exemptions are available for Native Americans and individuals with serious medical conditions.
“In the first year, all we need is for individuals to inform us about their circumstances, and we can waive the work requirements,” Dancis mentioned.
It’s also worth pointing out that the timing of these changes won’t affect all recipients simultaneously. Approximately 2,350 lawfully present immigrants may lose their eligibility starting on October 1, while about 89,000 residents are at risk of losing theirs come January.
For those facing eligibility issues in October, the Health Care Authority has resources to assist them. Dancis noted that there is a marketplace product available in New Mexico which comes with no premiums and very low cost-sharing aspects, aimed at supporting those transitioning from Medicaid.
As for recipients at risk in January, Dancis encourages them to be open about their employment status. “We understand that a lot of people on Medicaid are working,” she said. “So we want to ensure we know their work history and any other activities they are engaged in.”
The HCA advises anyone who receives a notice this week to read it thoroughly and complete any necessary actions. For those needing to update their contact information, the HCA has provided a link for assistance.
