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Navigating the changes in Apple Health coverage

Changes are coming for many members of Apple Health (Medicaid in Washington). See how changes might affect you and how you can stay covered.
August 21, 2023   |   3 minute read
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When you go see your doctor, the last thing you want to worry about is how you’re going to pay for your healthcare.

This may be the case for Washingtonians across the state. The end of the COVID-19 public health emergency means changes for Medicaid eligibility. In Washington, about 300,000 people may need to transition from Apple Health, the state’s Medicaid program.

The federal government required states to re-confirm eligibility before the emergency ended on May 11, 2023. Income and household size changes will disqualify some people who were receiving Medicaid benefits.

Finding out you need to find new coverage can cause panic and confusion. Luckily, there are lots of resources available through the Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) and other organizations to help navigate any potential changes. Here are three easy steps to help you navigate this change:

  • Get in the know. Learn about the upcoming changes to Apple Health in Washington. Make sure to visit HCA’s informative website: https://www.hca.wa.gov/assets/free-or-low-cost/unwinding-the-phe-for-apple-health.pdf. You can also reach out to Washington Healthplanfinder at: 855-923-4633 or www.wahealthplanfinder.org. They have enrollment partners statewide ready to assist you.
  • Start your transition. If you’re not eligible for Apple Health, search for a new 2023 health plan through the Washington Healthplanfinder.
  • Enroll and use your plan. A good choice is LifeWise Health Plan of Washington, which provides access to affordable healthcare across most of the state.

Our goal at LifeWise is to give our members the confidence and certainty they need to make the right healthcare decisions. We offer our Washington neighbors access to quality care that best fits their budget.

LifeWise offers Cascade Care plans across most of Washington. Cascade Care offers health insurance options on the individual market through Washington’s Healthplanfinder. LifeWise also offers plans via Cascade Care Select, also known as Washington’s public option, in 15 counties, including Adams, Benton, Chelan, Clark, Cowlitz, Douglas, Ferry, Island, Klickitat, Pend Oreille, San Juan, Skagit, Skamania, Wahkiakum and Whatcom.

Cascade Care Select plans, which are designed by the Washington Health Benefit Exchange, address affordability through lower premiums, lower deductibles, and access to services before paying a deductible. The average premiums for these plans went down for 2023, making LifeWise a more competitive option in the counties where Cascade Care Select plans are offered.

Please visit www.lifewise.com/stay-covered for more information.

No matter what health plan you choose, make sure you understand your Apple Health eligibility and status, and take the necessary steps to stay covered.

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