Beginning in January 2027, a new federal law requires states to review the eligibility of Medicaid Expansion members every 6 months, instead of every 12, through the Medicaid renewal process.

Who does this change apply to?
This change applies only to Medicaid Expansion members. Medicaid Expansion covers adults who are between 19 and 64, have income under 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL), and are not eligible for Medicare.

How does the Medicaid renewal process work?
Virginia Medicaid first tries to confirm that a member is still eligible using available information without reaching out to the member. If there is not enough information to confirm their eligibility, or if they appear ineligible, the state will send the member a prepopulated renewal form. Members should update incorrect information, add new information, sign, and return the form within 30 days. If the member is no longer eligible or does not complete the renewal form, they will receive a notice of action. If that is not complete, they may be moved into limited-coverage Medicaid or lose their coverage.

Learn more about the renewal process and how to return a member's renewal forms at Renew My Coverage | CoverVA.

More frequent renewals may result in the state asking Medicaid Expansion members for information more often. To make sure members don't miss important information or requests, it is important that they:

• Check their mail, email, and text messages regularly.
• Keep their contact information (mailing address, email address, phone number) up to date so they receive all important communications and requests. Members can make changes by calling Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 (TTY: 1-888-221-1590) or online at commonhelp.virginia.gov.
• Read all information sent by VA Medicaid as soon as they receive it, and respond quickly to all requests for information. Failure to respond by the specified deadline may result in loss of coverage.

When will this change happen for current Medicaid Expansion members?
Current Medicaid Expansion members will be renewed, if eligible, for 6-month eligibility periods starting with their first renewal in 2027. A member's renewal date is printed on the notice of eligibility sent when they are enrolled in coverage or when their coverage is renewed. Members can also confirm if they are enrolled in Medicaid Expansion and when their next renewal is scheduled by calling the Cover Virginia Call Center at 1-855-242-8282 (TTY: 1-888-221-1590) or by contacting their local Department of Social Services.

Learn more about 6-month eligibility renewals for certain adults by visiting the link below.

Did you know that Cardinal Care offers a program for adults 55+ to receive community-based healthcare services and supports?

Cardinal Care's Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) helps those with chronic healthcare needs and/or disabilities receive services needed to improve and maintain their overall health.

The program provides members with a team of healthcare professionals who work together to provide coordinated, person-centered care. The team is focused on getting to know members and gearing care toward their personal goals and preferences. 

Services include: 

• Primary, respite, home, adult day, hospital, nursing facility, and end-of-life care
• Medical specialty, emergency, social, and lab/X-ray services
• Physical and occupational therapy 
• Prescription medications
• Dentistry 
• Transportation

To learn more about PACE, visit the link below. 

Ticks and insect bites are common in Virginia, especially in spring and summer. Some ticks can spread serious diseases, so it's important to protect yourself and know when to get medical help.  

As we observe Healthy Vision Month, now is a good reminder to schedule an eye exam and learn your family eye health history, since some conditions are hereditary. Seek medical care right away if you notice sudden vision changes. 

Virginia Medicaid covers routine eye exams and glasses for members, typically offering one exam every 12 to 24 months depending on age and the member's specific Managed Care program. Children can also receive vision exams through the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) program. 

On April 29 in Hampton Roads, Governor Abigail Spanberger signed bipartisan legislation focused on connecting more Virginians with apprenticeships and supporting the men and women who power the Commonwealth's economy.

The Governor joined state and local leaders to sign House Bill 772 to provide greater flexibility for the use of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds. Later at Norfolk State University, Governor Spanberger signed House Bill 67, patroned by Delegate Michael Feggans, to connect workers with good-paying jobs in Virginia's nation-leading offshore wind industry.

To read the full press release, visit the link below.