A Medicaid policy issue in the post-welfare reform era concerns how states can use their authority under Section 1931 to restructure their Medicaid programs to provide low-income working families increased access to the health insurance essential to their transition from welfare to work. This project examines state efforts to improve Medicaid access for low-income working families and assesses effects on enrollment. The study used surveys and interviews to collect data in late 2000 for the 50 states and D.C. As expected, states varied in their choices for using Section 1931 to expand Medicaid coverage to low-income families. A focus on improving retention of Medicaid-rather than on expanding access-was frequently evident. Some states demonstrated creativity in using income disregards to both ensure access to transitional Medicaid assistance and extend transitional coverage. While some states have improved coverage for families, children were usually the targets of eligibility expansions under SCHIP. But, SCHIP outreach efforts and simplified enrollment often lead to similar Medicaid initiatives. States were concerned about the lack of coverage for low-income working families and agreed that health insurance was fundamental for work. States reported increases in Medicaid enrollment and that public opinion has shifted in support of providing assistance to low-income working families. Addressing the coverage needs of low-income families will require that states fully understand and utilize Section 1931. Increased federal support, i.e., technical assistance and increased flexibility in use of SCHIP and matching funds, is required for states to continue efforts to insure more working families through Medicaid. See www.gwu.edu/~chsrp
Learning Objectives: 1. Define and articulate states' options under Section 1931 policy to expand Medicaid coverage to low-income families. 2. Describe current examples of states' application of their authority under Section 1931 Medicaid to expand coverage to low-income working families. 3. Explain importance of states' use of Section 1931 Medicaid to provide health insurance coverage to low-income working families as a support for their transition from welfare to work.
Keywords: Medicaid, Welfare Reform
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.