For millions of Americans, the end of a federal public health emergency meant more than a policy change on paper — it meant a real risk of losing health coverage. The unwinding of COVID-19 era Medicaid protections created one of the largest coverage transition events in the program’s history, raising urgent questions about eligibility, renewal processes, and the options available to those affected.
Mandelbaum Barrett PC attorney Donald Dennison, Esq., was interviewed by Nina Del Rio on the 106.7 Lite FM radio program to discuss Medicaid benefits and eligibility in the context of the end of the Public Health Emergency. Dennison is a member of the firm’s health care law practice, where he advises clients on Medicaid planning, long-term care, and related matters throughout New Jersey. His radio appearance reflects the firm’s commitment to making complex legal and regulatory information accessible to the communities it serves.
What the End of the Public Health Emergency Meant for Medicaid
During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, federal law required states to maintain continuous Medicaid enrollment. This provision kept millions of people enrolled who might otherwise have lost eligibility as their circumstances changed. When the PHE ended and the continuous enrollment requirement expired, states were required to redetermine eligibility for all Medicaid enrollees — a process known as the “Medicaid unwinding.”
The scale of this process was significant. Many people lost coverage due to administrative factors rather than actual ineligibility, including missed renewal notices, outdated contact information, or renewal forms that went uncompleted. For individuals who depend on Medicaid for ongoing medical care, a lapse in coverage can create serious disruption.
Medicaid Eligibility and Long-Term Care Planning
Understanding Medicaid eligibility is particularly important for individuals planning for long-term care. Medicaid is the primary payer for nursing home and other long-term care services for people who qualify based on income and assets. The rules governing eligibility for long-term care Medicaid in New Jersey are complex, involving asset limits, look-back periods, and specific exemptions for certain categories of property.
According to Medicaid.gov, long-term services and supports represent a significant portion of Medicaid spending, and eligibility for these services is governed by state-specific rules that differ from those for standard Medicaid coverage. In New Jersey, advance planning significantly expands the range of strategies available for individuals seeking to preserve assets while meeting long-term care needs.
Options After Losing Medicaid Coverage
Individuals who lost Medicaid coverage during the unwinding period may have had access to other options, including marketplace coverage with potential subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, employer-sponsored coverage if eligible, or reapplication for Medicaid if circumstances permitted. For those in New Jersey, the state’s Medicaid program, NJ FamilyCare, administers eligibility and provides information about available programs and the application process.
Contact Mandelbaum Barrett PC for Health Care Law and Medicaid Planning Guidance
If you have questions about Medicaid planning, long-term care eligibility, or health care law matters in New Jersey, the health care law team at Mandelbaum Barrett PC can help you understand your options and plan appropriately for the future.
Reach out through our contact page to speak with our team. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of Medicaid eligibility and long-term care planning.