AMA urges states to use full extension for Medicaid work rules

Statement attributable to:
Willie Underwood III, MD, MSc, MPH
President, American Medical Association

"Implementing Medicaid work requirements is a significant undertaking for states, particularly in light of changes to federal guidance following the recent court decision on medical frailty. States must have sufficient time to update their eligibility systems, adjust administrative processes, and ensure they can accurately identify individuals who are subject to the requirements and those who qualify for exemptions.

"For patients across the country, losing Medicaid coverage can mean losing access to ongoing care, being unable to afford medication, and worse health outcomes. Patients should not lose this critical lifeline because of technical problems, administrative delays, or state systems that are not ready. The additional six months will give states critical time to address these challenges and help prevent eligible patients from being improperly disenrolled.

The AMA will continue fighting to protect access to medically necessary care and ensure bureaucratic red tape doesn't stand in patients' way. We urge every state to take advantage of the full six-month extension. States should use this time to thoroughly test their systems, strengthen implementation processes, and put safeguards in place to ensure eligible patients maintain the coverage they need."