Changes to Apple Health you need to know about

On May 11, 2023, the Federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared an end to the public health emergency (PHE) that started in January 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. During the PHE, Washington residents who participated in Apple Health, the state’s name for Medicaid, were continuously re-enrolled without renewal or review. 

With the end of the PHE, the state is required to assess—or redetermine—eligibility of Apple Health participants going forward. Your eligibility will be accessed and possibly changed when you report a change or are approaching your renewal end date. If you are losing your coverage, you may receive a notice from the Washington Health Care Authority stating as much. Not responding to a request for information may also be a cause for a change in eligibility. Redetermination for all Apple Health clients must be completed by the end of May 2024. 

Making the transition

If you are no longer eligible for Apple Health, you’ll need to search for a new health plan. General open enrollment for LifeWise plans begins November 1 and runs through January 15. Individuals who lose Apple Health coverage due to redetermination may also qualify for access to a special enrollment period. See if you qualify. 

LifeWise plans

LifeWise Cascade Bronze, Silver, and Gold plans all cover the same categories of care including office visits, hospital services, prescriptions, and virtual care. Differences in the plans are found in the size of the monthly premiums and in when you need healthcare services. 

Learn more about LifeWise health plans.

Or use the Washington health plan finder to see what plans are available in your area.  

Need help understanding your options or status with Apple Health? Find it online and over the phone through LifeWise of Washington at 800-817-3056. LifeWise customer service representatives are available from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. PST, Monday through Friday.