Pennsylvania: Shapiro Admin, Community Partners Work Together to Keep Pennsylvanians Covered as Deadline to Enroll Approaches

via Pennie, Pennsylvania's state-based ACA exchange:

• Deadline to enroll in 2024 health coverage is Friday, January 19.

Allentown, PA – Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh, Pennie® Executive Director Devon Trolley, and Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) Deputy Commissioner Dave Buono joined representatives from Star Community Health today to discuss how the Shapiro Administration and local partners are working together to support Pennsylvanians through federal changes to Medicaid and CHIP renewal requirements, reminding those who do not have health insurance that they can still enroll in coverage for 2024.

“All Pennsylvanians deserve the dignity and peace of mind in knowing they can access high-quality, affordable, local health care where and when it is needed. DHS wants to make sure people maintain their health coverage regardless of whether it comes from Medicaid, Pennie, CHIP, or another source,” said Secretary Arkoosh. “If you receive your health care through the state or know someone who does, please make sure they complete their renewal on time so they don’t risk a gap or loss in coverage. If you no longer qualify for Medicaid, don’t worry; DHS will automatically connect you to Pennie, where you can find a high-quality, affordable health plan.”

Previously, the federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic allowed for individuals to remain enrolled in Medicaid even if they became ineligible, except in certain circumstances. This was also known as the Medicaid continuous coverage requirement. A federal law ended this requirement in March 2023. Now, all Pennsylvanians receiving Medicaid or CHIP must once again complete their annual renewal when it is due to determine if they are still eligible for coverage.

Pennsylvanians who are no longer eligible for Medicaid will be referred to other sources of affordable health plans, like those available through Pennie, so they do not experience a gap or loss in health coverage.

“PID has been committed to ensuring that anyone who experiences loss of coverage following a Medicaid redetermination is able to find quality, comprehensive health insurance, particularly through the Pennie marketplace, or possibly through their employer, or, where eligible, a Medicare plan. We have focused on increasing competition in the marketplace so Pennsylvanians have more choices and increased affordability across the Commonwealth,” said Deputy Commissioner Buono. “Pennie’s Open Enrollment Period is the best time to explore available options and shop around to find a plan, even if you already have insurance. Quality, comprehensive health care coverage has never been more affordable, or easier to access for Pennsylvanians, and Pennie is the clearest way to make sure you are getting a plan that will cover important medical care in the case of a serious illness or injury. We encourage consumers to research and compare plans to find coverage that best fits their needs and provides robust benefits for themselves and their families.”

Pennie is Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace and the only place to get financial assistance to help lower the cost of high-quality coverage and care. Those who are no longer eligible for Medicaid coverage can apply for coverage through pennie.com, while some individuals will have their information securely transferred directly from Medicaid or CHIP for an easier enrollment process. Customers can call Pennie Customer Service at 1-844-844-8040 or find Pennie-certified help at pennie.com/connect.

"This Friday, January 19, 2024, is the final opportunity to enroll in 2024 health coverage through Pennie. Over 415,000 Pennsylvanians have already enrolled in a quality plan. Don’t miss your chance for the peace of mind and protection that comes with having health insurance,” said Pennie Executive Director Devon Trolley. “Enrolling in coverage now at pennie.com is the best way to protect your health and your savings in 2024.”

This is an important data point--the most recent official enrollment tally was 407,000 as of December 23rd. Last year Pennsylvania ended up with 371,516 QHP selections during Open Enrollment, so 415K means they've enrolled at least 11.7% more.

Pennie’s annual Open Enrollment period is the only time to shop and enroll in coverage from the top health insurance companies, with financial savings that are only available through Pennie. This Open Enrollment period will end at midnight on January 19. Anyone who misses the deadline will need to wait until next November to enroll unless there is a qualifying life event such as losing other health coverage or moving. All health plans offered through Pennie provide comprehensive coverage, including care for pre-existing conditions and many free preventive screenings and vaccines.

“At Star Community Health, we take immense pride in our commitment to recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of our patients. Our approach extends beyond conventional healthcare, acknowledging the unique challenges our individuals and families may face,” said Executive Director Mark Roberts. “By identifying and addressing these needs, we not only provide quality medical care but also foster a comprehensive and supportive environment that contributes to the long-term well-being of our community. Our patient-centric focus remains unwavering as we continue to innovate and adapt to evolving healthcare landscapes, ultimately championing a holistic approach to sustained wellness for everyone we serve.”

Pennsylvanians who believe their Medicaid coverage was ended incorrectly can appeal the termination or return their renewal within 90 days of the deadline to have their renewal reconsidered. Medicaid recipients also may provide their renewal information to their local County Assistance Office or by calling 1-866- 550-4355.

To learn more about Medicaid and CHIP renewals and to access educational resources, visit here. For more information on health insurance options available to Pennsylvanians, visit here.