MDHHS alerts Healthy Michigan Plan beneficiaries of steps to prepare for federally required changes to Medicaid

State working to ensure families keep their health care coverage

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is preparing to implement federally required changes to Medicaid due to the passage of H.R. 1. Among the changes are new work requirements and more frequent eligibility checks for some individuals enrolled in the Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP).

"Health care coverage plays a critical role in helping people access preventative care, manage chronic conditions and stay healthy," said Amy Epkey, MDHHS acting director. "Our priority is helping beneficiaries understand these new requirements so they can comply and we can keep as many eligible Michiganders covered as possible."

Beginning in January 2027, certain HMP members between the ages of 19 and 64 may need to meet new work requirements or qualify for an exemption to maintain coverage. People who are not exempt will be able to meet the requirements through various approved activities including working, volunteering, going to school or participating in a work program. Most HMP beneficiaries will also transition from annual renewals to six-month renewals.

Individuals who qualify for an exemption will not be subject to the new work requirements. Exemptions include, but are not limited to, women who are pregnant or newly postpartum, American Indians and Alaska Natives, some individuals with complex health needs and certain caregivers.

"Even with these new federal bureaucratic hoops, no one should assume they will lose coverage," said Meghan Groen, MDHHS Health Services chief deputy director and state Medicaid director. "Many who need to meet this new eligibility requirement may already be doing so through work, school or other approved activities. Many others may qualify for an exemption."

MDHHS is reviewing newly released federal guidance and working to update systems, train staff and develop educational materials to prepare for these changes. As part of that effort, MDHHS has launched a community partner toolkit with resources organizations can use to share information with constituents and help beneficiaries prepare for these upcoming changes. MDHHS has also launched a public awareness campaign and plans to further expand outreach efforts as implementation of Medicaid changes approach.

Implementation of the new rules will happen over time and not everyone will be affected right away. HMP beneficiaries will receive information and notices as changes approach and additional details become available.

At this time, MDHHS encourages anyone with Medicaid coverage to:

• Make sure their information is current in their MI Bridges account.

• Watch for and read notices from MDHHS regarding their health care coverage.

• Respond promptly to any requests for information from MDHHS.

• Visit Michigan.gov/HMP for updates and additional information about work requirements.

MDHHS will continue providing updates as planning for these changes progresses and additional details become available.

# # #