Oaklawn Encourages Medicaid Members to Prepare for 2027 Coverage Changes
MARSHALL, MI – Oaklawn is reminding community members enrolled in Medicaid that significant federal changes to coverage requirements are scheduled to take effect beginning January 1, 2027. The changes will affect eligibility reporting, renewal timelines, and work requirements for many beneficiaries enrolled in Michigan’s Healthy Michigan Plan.
Under the new requirements, many Healthy Michigan Plan recipients between the ages of 19 and 64 will be required to report at least 80 hours of work, approved volunteer service, education, or job training activities. Reporting will generally be required every six months as part of the renewal process. Individuals who do not complete the required reporting may lose their Medicaid coverage.
In addition, most Medicaid beneficiaries will transition from annual renewals to renewals every six months beginning in 2027. This makes it more important than ever for recipients to keep their contact information current and respond promptly to renewal notices from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
“Thousands of Michigan residents rely on Medicaid to access essential healthcare services, and these changes could have a significant impact on them,” said Summer Liston-Crandall, President and CEO. “We want our community to understand these new requirements and know that support is available to help eligible individuals navigate the process and maintain their coverage.”
Not all individuals will be subject to the work reporting requirements. Exemptions may apply to people who are pregnant or postpartum, veterans with qualifying disabilities, individuals with complex medical needs, those receiving substance use treatment, certain parents and caregivers, and several other groups.
To help residents navigate the upcoming changes, Oaklawn offers support through its Financial Counselor and Medicaid Navigation Partner. Community members can receive assistance with:
- Applying for Medicaid coverage
- Completing Medicaid renewals and redeterminations
- Understanding work requirement obligations
- Determining exemption eligibility
- Connecting with additional community resources
Individuals are encouraged to review their Medicaid status, update their contact information through Michigan.gov/MIBridges, and begin preparing now for the changes that will take effect in 2027.
For more information about Medicaid applications, renewals, work requirements, or to request an appointment with Oaklawn’s Financial Counselor and Medicaid Navigation Partner, visit oaklawnhospital.org/Medicaid.
