Over 280,000 Enrollees for Medicaid Expansion
North Carolina has witnessed a successful expansion of its Medicaid coverage, with over 280,000 people between the ages of 19 and 64 enrolling for this program. These individuals fall into the category of earning too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid but not enough to benefit significantly from government-subsidized private insurance. This expansion initiative aims to provide broader medical care to those who were already receiving Medicaid for family-planning coverage.
Enrollment Exceeds Expectations
The initial figures, as of December 1, showed that nearly 273,000 individuals were already enrolled and covered by the expansion. The remaining enrollees largely consisted of individuals who were automatically moved from Medicaid for family-planning coverage to receive broader medical care through the expansion. The Cooper administration estimated that close to 300,000 people would be enrolled on the first day, with the hope of ultimately reaching 600,000 individuals benefiting from this coverage in the long run.
Data Dashboard for Tracking Enrollment
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently launched an online dashboard to provide regular updates on expansion enrollment, demographic trends, and other relevant statistics. The dashboard highlights that the highest percentages of adults aged 19-64 covered by Medicaid are in four rural counties: Anson, Edgecombe, Richmond, and Robeson. Furthermore, DHHS reported that over 84,000 people have applied for Medicaid since December 15, with county social service officials currently processing these applications. As of December 12, 49,000 prescriptions have been filled for expansion enrollees.
Government Continues to Support Enrollment Efforts
State health Secretary Kody Kinsley expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating that “hundreds of people each day are gaining health care coverage and getting the care they need.” The government is committed to working alongside state and community partners to ensure that enrollment efforts are supported, allowing as many people as possible to access the coverage they require.
Overall Medicaid Enrollment Numbers
North Carolina’s Medicaid expansion adds to the overall Medicaid enrollment, which currently stands at approximately 2.85 million people, as of November. The state joins the ranks of the 40th state, along with the , to implement this vital expansion. The initiative aims to bridge the gap in coverage for those who would not typically qualify for Medicaid but still face financial constraints in accessing private insurance.