What People (and Policymakers) Can Do About Losing Coverage During the COVID-19 Crisis

KFF March 27, 2020
Karen Pollitz

In mid-March, a record 3.3 million Americans filed new claims for unemployment benefits. Job loss can trigger loss of health insurance. There are options for keeping or getting new coverage, but transitions can result in coverage gaps or changes in covered benefits and affordability. Actions by policymakers could make transitions easier.

Medicaid

Medicaid offers free or low-cost comprehensive coverage for people when they have a spell of low income. People used to having job based coverage and higher income may not realize Medicaid could be an option for them. It’s time to take another look.

For consumers: In 37 states (including D.C.) that adopted the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Medicaid expansion, adults can qualify if their current income is up...

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