Since the Covid-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) began in March 2020, virtually no Medicaid recipients could have their coverage terminated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). This includes numerous people who are no longer technically eligible for Medicaid.

However, once the federally declared Public Health Emergency (PHE) ends, DCF will return to regular operations and eligibility requirements. Over the 12 months after the PHE ends, hundreds of thousands of Floridians will lose their current Medicaid coverage.

People Relying on Medicaid during the PHE:

The STORIES, Information and Issues

Over 2.5 million Florida children rely on Medicaid for all of their health care services. They are entitled to a comprehensive set of benefits, including periodic well child checkups and screens, as well as coverage for any medical service that is “medically necessary” for treating the child’s condition.

Children Relying on Medicaid: The STORIES, Information and Issues

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provided coverage for youth aging out of foster care until age 26 (“Former Foster Care” Medicaid). This critical coverage for young adults mirrors the ACA provision allowing children to stay on their parents’ health insurance plan until age 26.

Former Foster Care Children Relying on Medicaid:

The STORIES, Information and Issues

Nearly half of all births in Florida are financed by Medicaid. This coverage is critical, providing access to care for those who would otherwise be without during this vital period.

Pregnant Women Relying on Medicaid: The STORIES, Information and Issues

Florida’s Medicaid program provides Medicaid coverage for very low-income parents with minor children. For parents, eligibility is limited to those whose income is approximately 32% of the federal poverty level, or less than $500/month for a single parent with one child. Parents lose their vital health care coverage when their income rises above this meager amount, or when their youngest child turns 18.

Low-Income Parents Relying on Medicaid: The STORIES, Information and Issues

The Florida Medicaid program provides coverage for extremely low-income individuals 65 and older and for individuals who have been found to be disabled.

For those low-wealth individuals who need a nursing home level of care, Medicaid provides coverage for over half of all Floridians in nursing homes. Also, a limited number of people who qualify for the nursing home benefit can enroll in Medicaid’s Long-Term Care managed care program providing home and community based services (HCBS). There is a waiting list for this critical program.

Seniors and People with Disabilities Relying on Medicaid:

The STORIES, Information and Issues