What to know about cuts to Medicaid in Washington state
On October 1, roughly 11,000 Washington residents lost Medicaid coverage, and state officials say larger changes are on the way.
The cause is H.R. 1, the federal budget law Congress passed last year. One piece of it narrows Medicaid eligibility for immigrants, mostly to lawful permanent residents. People who are legally in the U.S. but fall outside those categories, including refugees, asylees, and trafficking survivors, no longer qualify.
A second piece takes effect in January that could disproportionately impact the disability community: new work requirements. State estimates show more than 600,000 Washingtonians could be at risk of losing their Apple Health coverage.
Even with the state’s efforts to help people keep their benefits, officials expect at least 200,000 residents to lose Medicaid by the end of 2027, as changes roll out gradually when people renew their coverage.
Washington is trying to soften the impact. The state is building an automated system that uses existing records to check whether people meet the work requirements or qualify for an exemption, so fewer people have to submit paperwork every six months. State officials worry that every extra form is another chance for someone to lose coverage simply because the process is too hard to navigate. They also warn that when people lose coverage, they often turn to emergency rooms, which means longer waits for everyone and tough choices for hospitals and clinics, especially in rural areas.
What you can do:
Check your coverage. If you or someone you know has Medicaid (called Apple Health in Washington state), confirm your eligibility.
Keep your contact information current with Washington State’s Health Care Authority so you don’t miss notices.
Ask about exemptions. Some people may qualify for an exemption from the work requirements.
Spread the word. Share this post with friends, family and neighbors who may be affected.
Tell us what you wish lawmakers knew.
Source: Axios Seattle, “New Medicaid rules cut coverage for 11,000 in Washington state”