On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed into law a bill that cuts $1 trillion from the Medicaid program and makes sweeping changes to eligibility, enrollment processes and more. The new requirements don’t go into effect immediately – but we know they are coming. Here are some steps you can take to protect your Medicaid coverage now and, in the future, as the new requirements go into effect.
- Know the name of your Medicaid program (some go by names like HuskyHealth, BadgerCare, Apple Health; some programs are managed by insurers like Aetna or Centene). Visit Medicaid.gov or your state’s Medicaid agency website.
- Make sure that your contact information is up to date with your Medicaid program and make a practice of logging into your Medicaid account regularly to check for updates.
- Sign up for access to your state’s Medicaid portal (if applicable). Check this portal often for messages.
- Consider having a trusted family member or friend be your “Medicaid Buddy” to help you keep track of due dates, assist with application completion, remind you of enrollment periods or even attend Medicaid appointments.
- Be sure to open all mail and emails from Medicaid and/or your state’s health department and your insurer. If you receive any communication, respond within the deadline (typically 10-30 days).
- Begin keeping detailed records of your monthly work or qualifying activities (e.g., caregiving, school, community service). These can include pay stubs, schedules, attendance sheets, etc.
- SCDAA encourages you to connect with your local sickle cell member organization/SCDAA Member Organization for assistance with completing the above and check the SCDAA website for further information and/or resources.
