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Cardinal Care Correspondence
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May 20, 2026
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Medicaid News & Updates
Six-Month Eligibility Renewals for Certain Adults
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 completed, they may be moved into limited-coverage Medicaid or lose their coverage.
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.
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Give Back by Joining BAC!
Cardinal Care has established the Beneficiary Advisory Council (BAC) to ensure the voices and lived experiences of Medicaid members are included in the agency's decision-making process and change management efforts.
Building on the foundation of the former Member Advisory Committee established in 2019, the BAC provides a formal opportunity for current and former Medicaid members to share feedback and help shape the future of Virginia Medicaid programs and services.
BAC members provide valuable insight on the impact of DMAS services, policies, and member experiences to support ongoing program improvements for Virginia Medicaid applicants and enrollees.
DMAS is currently focused on recruiting new council members. All meetings are open to the public. Future meeting information and announcements will be posted on Virginia Town Hall. The next scheduled BAC meeting (virtual) is June 10, 10:00–11:30 a.m.
In PACE, the Focus is on YOU!
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.
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This Summer, Protect Yourself From Ticks
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.
Early treatment can prevent serious illness. See a doctor if you get symptoms within days or weeks after a bite, including:
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Fever or chills
- Rash or "bullseye" rash
- Headache
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Muscle or joint pain
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Trouble breathing
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Severe swelling or allergic reaction
Virginia Medicaid members can call their health plan's nurse advice line, visit urgent care, or contact a primary care doctor if they have concerns about a bite or reaction.
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May is Healthy Vision Month: Help Your Eyes Last a Lifetime
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.
Taking care of your eyes today can help preserve your vision for a lifetime.
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What's Happening Around the Commonwealth |
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In Hampton Roads, Governor Spanberger Signs Bills to Support Workforce Development, Connect Virginians with Good-Paying Jobs
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.
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Governor Spanberger Launches Statewide Tour to Develop Comprehensive Economic Development Policy
On May 11, Governor Spanberger announced the launch of a statewide tour focused on developing a comprehensive economic development policy to guide her Administration's work to deliver results for business, workers, and communities. This roadmap will be focused on growing Virginia's economy, creating economic opportunity for all Virginians, and making clear to companies across the nation why Virginia is the best place to start or expand their operations.
Over the coming months, the Governor and members of her Cabinet will host events to hear directly from business leaders, industry experts, and education partners across communities about the concrete steps Virginia can take to accelerate economic development. The Governor's Administration has so far held two sessions in Harrisonburg and Fairfax.
The sessions are guided by three core areas of focus outlined in the executive order:
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Supercharging Virginia's Business Growth: Build on Virginia's competitive foundation and strategic assets to position the Commonwealth as the nation's premier business destination.
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Growing an Economy that Delivers for Every Virginian: Ensure that economic growth translates into opportunity for all Virginians—lowering costs, improving access to affordable housing and childcare, expanding career pathways, and ensuring every region of Virginia wins.
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Leading the Way in a Changing Economy: Position the Commonwealth at the forefront of emerging industries, workforce transformation, and infrastructure modernization to lead in a rapidly changing global economy.
To read the executive order, visit the link below.
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Engage With Your Cardinal Care Community!
Cardinal Care is exploring ways to connect the Medicaid community—and we want to hear from YOU!
Please let us know what areas of Virginia Medicaid you would find most helpful to have a community forum, question & answer session, or more resources on by filling out the survey linked below.
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Share Your Story
Has Medicaid helped you or someone you know access the care you needed or improved your quality of life? We'd love to hear how Medicaid has made a difference for you or your family.
Share your story with us by filling out a short survey. Selected stories may be featured on our social media accounts to inspire others and show the impact of Medicaid in our community. Your voice matters—help us tell the story of Medicaid's impact!
Check out our social media for a chance to submit photos! You could see your pictures featured in future newsletters and on Facebook and Instagram in our new "Real People, Real Members" initiative.
Not a Medicaid Member?
Virginia Medicaid offers quality low-cost and no-cost coverage. .
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