With the global pandemic resulting in a rapid increase to the nation’s unemployment rate, more Americans may now qualify for Medicaid — a government-funded health insurance program that provides coverage for low-income children, pregnant women, and disabled adults in Texas.
Texas Children’s Health Plan serves children and women in the Medicaid program, therefore, an increase in Medicaid recipients will likely result in an increase in Texas Children’s Health Plan members.
And we are ready to serve.
”We are closely collaborating with the state of Texas as we collectively respond to the evolving COVID crisis,” said Johnna Carlson, director of Government Programs. “We are anticipating a surge and know we will have the ability to serve these new members well.”
Why is it important that the health plan is ready?
Texas Children’s Health Plan is a health plan much like Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Cigna or many others. The difference is that it manages the health care of low-income families who receive government-funded insurance.
Even outside of a pandemic, health plan employees are skilled at caring for families that are living through challenging and stressful life circumstances. “This is what we do,” Carlson said. “We care for the families that need us most. We answer the call all of the time – but especially in times like these.”
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has indicated that it saw a 47 percent increase in Medicaid application submissions in March 2020 compared to March 2019. While not all applicants may qualify for Medicaid coverage, we can expect to see an ongoing increase in Medicaid applications in the coming months.
What does the national picture look like for the low-income?
Health Management Associates, an independent firm that is consulting with health plans across the country, recently published some high-level observations and predictions:
- The number of people receiving health insurance coverage from an employer could decline by 12 to 35 million, including both workers and family members.
- Medicaid enrollment could increase from 71 million to 82-94 million.
- Medicaid enrollment could grow by 5 million regardless of the number of people who lose their jobs.
- Uninsured numbers could increase to 40 million.
Based on these and other projections there will be a national need for affordable and quality health care; and Texas Children’s Health Plan will be positioned to meet the need. If you or anyone you know would like more information about Texas Children’s Health Plan, visit texaschildrenshealthplan.org.