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This month’s update focuses on getting the word out about changes to Medicaid. It also includes resources to learn about (and weigh in on) the new federal rule about Medicaid work reporting requirements.
Thousands of state residents will face new requirements to get or stay covered by Medicaid as part of HR 1, the federal law also known as the “big beautiful bill.” People covered by HUSKY D (the part of Medicaid that covers adults without minor children) will face new requirements related to reporting work hours or other activities starting Jan. 1, and people with certain immigration statuses will lose Medicaid eligibility as of Oct. 1.
Department of Social Services HR 1 website and toolkit
The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) has launched a new website devoted to helping people understand what’s changing under HR 1 and how they might be affected. The site includes pages for individuals and community partners, and includes tips on how to stay informed. It provides information about both Medicaid (HUSKY) and SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
DSS work rules toolkit
DSS also launched a work rules toolkit designed to help people understand if the new changes affect their coverage; what they can do to stay eligible; learn how to report their hours (if necessary); and find help maintaining coverage. The toolkit includes links to pre-screeners for both HUSKY and SNAP that can help individuals see if the new rules apply to them.
HUSKY D messaging starter kit
The Connecticut Hospital Association recently released a set of informational materials designed to help people understand the upcoming changes to HUSKY D. The resources include a flowchart to help identify if you are subject to the new work rules, a fact sheet and poster, and resources for providers and community-based organizations. The goal is to get the word out to as many people as possible, and organizations are welcome to add their own logos to the materials. The resources are available in English and Spanish.
>>> See the messaging materials
Webinar: Preparing hospitals and communities for Medicaid eligibility changes
The Connecticut Hospital Association is hosting a webinar about changes to HUSKY D eligibility at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 22nd. The webinar is intended for hospitals, health care providers, and community-based organizations supporting people who might be affected by these changes. It will cover the new eligibility requirements and strategies for outreach and education to help people maintain coverage. The webinar is free but registration is required.
Understanding the latest news on Medicaid work rules
On June 1, the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released an interim final rule on the new Medicaid work rules. This will have big implications for how states implement the Medicaid changes and it contained some surprises. State Health & Value Strategies provided an overview of the key takeaways and hosted a webinar on the important points and key nuances to note.
>>> Read an overview of the key takeaways from the new guidance
>>> Watch the webinar recording and see the slides
Demystifying the public comment process
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is accepting public comments on the interim final rule for Medicaid work rules until July 31. Many advocacy organizations say it’s an opportunity to show in specific detail what effects this rule will have. The National Health Law Program (NHeLP) has a helpful guide to the role these comments play in shaping policy.