CHEYENNE, WYO – A number of Wyoming residents have recently lost Medicaid coverage as part of Medicaid Redeterminations that began April 1. Those who qualify may be able to find health insurance coverage at reduced costs with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming (BCBSWY) through Healthcare.gov during the Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
The current SEP for those losing their Medicaid coverage has been extended until July 31, 2024, allowing eligible consumers to purchase health insurance. BCBSWY recommends people losing coverage learn about their SEP options to enroll in a new low-cost plan through the federal health insurance marketplace. The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) may also be a viable option for family members. Most people who lose coverage due to the Medicaid Redeterminations will qualify for significant cost-savings.
Many Wyoming households are losing Medicaid coverage as federal funding allocated to combat COVID-19 expires. Congress created an incentive for states to keep members enrolled in Medicaid during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) rather than conducting ongoing eligibility redeterminations and terminating coverage. Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, states are now allowed to resume Medicaid Redeterminations to remove ineligible individuals as the Public Health Emergency ends.
Additionally, COVID-19 vaccinations and testing will no longer be covered under the Public Health Emergency Declarations as of May 11. BCBSWY is covering COVID-19 vaccinations at 100% as a preventive care benefit. Testing for COVID-19 diagnosis will be subject to health insurance cost shares as determined by specific benefit plans. BCBSWY encourages Wyoming residents to be aware of these changes.
“The new Medicaid Redeterminations and the end of Public Health Emergency can be confusing for people, and BCBSWY is here to help everyone understand their health care options,” said Diane Gore, BCBSWY president and CEO. “We want to keep people covered and believe education is key. That’s why we have experts who can address any concerns someone may have regarding their health care coverage.”
For additional information and assistance, contact a local BCBSWY Member Center or call 888-851-2227. Information is also available from Enroll Wyoming by dialing 211.
About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming (BCBSWY), a not-for-profit health insurer and an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, provides access to high quality health care coverage, services and programs to help our members make the best health care decisions and get the best care. With 10 locations across Wyoming, we provide hometown service to residents and businesses while serving people and charitable organizations in communities around the state. Learn more about us at BCBSWY.com.