Changes to expanded COVID coverage under the AEM program

Washington State Health Care Authority sent this bulletin at 07/03/2023 09:00 AM PDT

July 3, 2023

Changes to expanded COVID coverage under the AEM program

Effective May 12, 2023 HCA rescinded an emergency rule-making order WSR 23-06-017. This emergency rule provided for expanded COVID-specific coverage for those eligible for Alien Emergent Medical (AEM) coverage during the Public Health Emergency (PHE).

Available AEM coverage

The PHE has ended and expanded COVID coverage is no longer available under the AEM program.

However, at any time, people who are treated for life-threatening conditions in emergency departments may be eligible for AEM program coverage.

Learn more about AEM Apple Health coverage

Resources

People who are uninsured may be able to receive COVID testing and treatment from:

Apply for Apple Health (Medicaid) coverage: hca.wa.gov/apply-or-renew-coverage
Department of Health: doh.wa.gov/emergencies/covid-19/treatments
Health and Human Services gov/coronavirus/covid-19-care-uninsured-individuals/index.html

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.