Allegheny County officials are launching a communitywide campaign to help residents maintain Medicaid coverage as new federal eligibility requirements take effect Jan. 1, 2027. The changes, enacted under the federal Big Beautiful Bill Act, will require many Medicaid recipients to renew their coverage every six months and answer additional questions on lengthy renewal forms.
County officials and health care providers say the outreach effort is intended to prevent eligible residents from losing coverage because they miss deadlines or struggle to navigate the renewal process.
“Too many people risk losing health coverage even if they are working or eligible for exemptions simply because they are unaware of new requirements or don’t know where to turn
for help,” County Executive Sara Innamorato said.
Organizations across the county team up
The Allegheny County Department of Human Services is partnering with health care providers and community organizations to offer training, public information sessions, text reminders and online advertising.
Through a partnership with the UPMC Neighborhood Outreach Center, grassroots organizations will receive training to help residents navigatePennsylvania’s online Medicaid system. Community office hours also will provide hands-on assistance. A series of town halls will give residents opportunities to ask questions and learn about the requirements. The first was held Oct. 28.
DHS Director Alex Jutca said the county is working with trusted community partners to ensure eligible residents have access to information and assistance.
"By working with trusted partners and providing practical tools, training, and information, we can help ensure that eligible residents understand what's changing and know that they are not alone in navigating these changes," he said. "DHS and our network of providers are here to help anyone in need of assistance.”
United Way’s PA 211 Southwestwill also connect residents with organizations that can help them navigate the changes. The organization cautioned that callers may experience longer wait times because of increased demand.
Residents can find Medicaid information and assistance at https://www.alleghenycounty.us/Services/Human-Services-DHS/Find-Help/Medicaid-Information-and-Communications-Resources.
This story was produced by reporter Gabby Sartori, [gsartori@usatodayco.com], with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more atcm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct. Find more from the Steel City by signing up for our newsletter. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Medicaid recipients face new renewal requirements beginning in 2027
