The DC Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF) announced that the federal government has approved its request to implement new Medicaid eligibility standards, known as Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) standards, by October 1, 2013 – three months before the effective date of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).  This change is designed to help the District realize the vision of DC Health Link, a new, integrated eligibility portal that will allow all District residents, regardless of income, to apply for health insurance coverage and to find out if they are eligible for Medicaid or other financial assistance at the same time.

In addition, the District of Columbia received approval to extend the dates for the District’s Medicaid renewals that otherwise would be scheduled for January 1, 2014 through March 31, 2014.  This change helps current Medicaid beneficiaries maintain their benefits while the District implements the new MAGI eligibility standards.

“This is yet another example of how the District of Columbia is taking a lead to ensure that all District residents have access to affordable health care,” said Linda Elam, Ph.D., State Medicaid Director. “The decision to adopt MAGI standards early provides a smooth path to coverage for low income individuals and families seeking health insurance through DC Health Link beginning on October 1, 2013.”

The DC Medicaid program has been at the forefront of efforts to promote access to health insurance coverage for low income individuals and families.  As one of only six jurisdictions that opted to expand Medicaid early, the District has already added 44,000 childless adults to the Medicaid rolls.  Efforts to expand Medicaid, coupled with high rates of employer-sponsored coverage, means that 93% of District residents have health insurance.