Be aware of Medicaid renewal scams

Washington State Health Care Authority sent this bulletin at 04/19/2023 12:00 PM PDT

April 19, 2023

Be aware of Medicaid renewal scams

During the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) the Health Care Authority (HCA) extended coverage for all Apple Health (Medicaid) clients. This extension has now ended due to the Consolidated Appropriation Act of 2023 and HCA resumed normal operations on April 1, 2023.

Reports of fake texts and phone calls to Medicaid clients have been reported over the past couple weeks in other states. We’re asking Apple Health clients to be aware of suspicious contact seeking money to maintain their health coverage.

HCA will never ask for money to enroll or re-enroll in Apple Health coverage

Clients should not share banking or credit card information with anyone claiming to be from HCA or Apple Health. If they receive a phone call or text message they think is a scam, they should hang up and report this to Apple Health customer service at 1-800-562-3022.

Sometime over the next 12 months, Apple Health clients will receive a renewal notice prior to the end of their renewal period based on their renewal date. HCA may text and call with a reminder that it’s time to update their contact information or renew coverage. These will be generic in nature and will never ask for money to maintain their coverage.

Keep your clients up to date

To ensure they receive important notices about their health care coverage, Apple Health clients can update their contact information using one of the following options:

For single adults, children, pregnant individuals, and parents/caretakers:
- Online: wahealthplanfinder.org or download the WAPlanfinder app
- Phone: 1-855-923-4633

For individuals who are aged, blind, disabled, or eligible for Medicare:
- Online: washingtonconnection.org
- Phone: 1-877-501-2233

For more information about changes to Apple Health continuous coverage, visit hca.wa.gov/phe.

About the Health Care Authority (HCA)

The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is committed to whole-person care, integrating physical health and behavioral health services for better results and healthier residents.

HCA purchases health care for more than 2.5 million Washington residents through Apple Health (Medicaid), the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) Program, the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) Program, and the COFA Islander Health Care Program. As the largest health care purchaser in the state, we lead the effort to transform health care, helping ensure Washington residents have access to better health and better care at a lower cost.

Please do not reply directly to this message. For more information, visit the HCA website, where you'll also find contact information.

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Nondiscrimination

The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) complies with all applicable federal and Washington state civil rights laws and is committed to providing equal access to our services. Visit HCA’s website to view complete nondiscrimination statements.