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Friday, February 14, 2025

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Federal prosecutors in NY and DC resign after refusing to drop Mayor Eric Adams charges; IN weighs Bitcoin bet in state investments; In rural east KY, communities find ways to boost kids early learning; and start date for MN's paid leave law is now up for debate.

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Medicaid Redetermination in NC: Thousands at Risk of Losing Coverage

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Thursday, July 13, 2023   

North Carolinians face a significant challenge as the federal provision preventing states from removing Medicaid participants from their coverage in the first three years of the pandemic has expired.

The change has put thousands of residents at risk of losing their health coverage in the coming year through a process called redetermination.

Rebekah Garcia, supervising attorney for Legal Aid of North Carolina, expects 300,000 people to be ineligible for Medicaid. She also noted some people may lose coverage if they fail to respond to requests for information regarding their eligibility.

"One of our largest concerns at Legal Aid of North Carolina is that individuals who are still eligible are going to be disenrolled or terminated simply because of an administrative reason," Garcia emphasized. "Having the wrong, address with DSS, so they're not receiving those notices."

In order to avoid any issues, Garcia advised individuals to check with the Department of Social Services and ensure their contact information is kept up to date for receiving notifications. She added it is important to note if you do happen to lose coverage, there are options available. You can either contact Social Services within 90 days with the required information, or take advantage of a special enrollment period open until next May 24, and sign up for a qualified plan.

Another important issue they face is the possible loss of coverage for many children if notices are not interpreted correctly. Garcia pointed out eligibility requirements have multiple categories which may qualify children for assistance even if their parents do not.

"The income limits are very low, about 45% of the federal poverty level in order to qualify, whereas the income levels for children are much higher," Garcia explained. "It's at about 211% of the federal poverty level."

Garcia added they understand the process could get confusing, so Legal Aid of North Carolina, along with Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy and Pisgah Legal Services, has created NCMedHelp.org, a website to serve as a vital resource for beneficiaries seeking advice on Medicaid eligibility and next steps.


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