With the federal government ending the continuous Medicaid coverage requirement on March 31, the Mississippi Division of Medicaid (DOM) is notifying Medicaid members that eligibility renewals will begin on April 1.
During the COVID-19 public emergency, states and territories have continued to cover every person who has been eligible for Medicaid on or after March 18, 2020, even if their income or circumstances have changed and otherwise would no longer be eligible.
Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act passed in December, Congress is now requiring states to begin the process of redetermining the eligibility of all Medicaid members. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has instructed all states to begin normal redetermination operations by April 1.
To prepare for the return to annual renewals, DOM is sending notices to recipients alerting them to the change in federal requirements and to look for renewal forms in the mail in the months ahead.
In January, DOM also launched a Stay Covered campaign, which includes a Coverage Champions program for community partners, advocates and providers to support Medicaid members and prepare for the end of the continuous coverage requirement.
Following federal guidance, renewals for all current Medicaid members must be initiated within 12 months following April 1, and all renewals must be completed within 14 months.
Members can update their information online or by calling either 1-800-421-2408 or (601)359-6050.
