“Pennsylvania Medicaid, also called Medical Assistance (MA), provides health care coverage for eligible individuals, including children, adults, seniors and people with disabilities.”

Some of our pantry guests are on Medicaid, so I wanted to share this information. This information comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website at tinyurl.com/y4cfs8fs.

“Pennsylvania Medicaid covers a wide range of health services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health and substance use services and long-term supports. Programs like CHIP provide coverage for children. Eligibility is primarily based on income and household composition, with limits expressed as a percentage of the federal poverty level. Certain programs, like Medicaid for Children with Special Needs, provide full coverage regardless of parental income if the child has a disability.”

Note: This may change, but as of now, there are three major changes that will affect some Medicaid applicants and recipients.

“Starting Jan. 1, 2027, some adults ages 19-64 will need to have their Medicaid eligibility checked by completing a renewal every six months instead of every year.

“For example, if they apply for Medicaid on or after Jan. 1, 2027, they will have to renew their Medicaid in six months. If their coverage begins in January 2027, they will complete a Medicaid renewal in July 2027. If they are currently on Medicaid, the current renewal date will not be shortened until after their next renewal. For example, if their next Medicaid renewal is due in March 2027, they will renew again in September 2027.

“Starting Jan. 1, 2027, some adults ages 19-64 who do not have a dependent child under 14 years old must show that they are meeting work requirements. This will be reviewed during application, renewal and when an individual becomes eligible for Medicaid expansion between renewals.

“If they must meet the requirement but do not follow the new rules or report to PA DHS, they will lose Medicaid coverage. Some people may be exempt from the requirement.

“Starting Jan. 1, 2027, retroactive Medicaid coverage time frames will decrease for Medicaid applicants. Retroactive coverage is for medical expenses that occurred prior to the month of application. Retroactive coverage can currently be approved for up to three months prior to the month of application for Medicaid.

“As of Jan. 1, retroactive coverage windows will shorten to the following: one month for Medicaid expansion adults (age 19-64) and two months for all other Medicaid recipients.”

“DHS will help you prepare for changes to your benefits as they come. Be on the lookout for more information from DHS about your benefits. Your benefits will not change without notice from DHS. You will have the opportunity to update your case information before any changes are made.”