This blog post was written by Danica Keeton, Director of Development and Community Relations, at Community Health Systems.
Being a Medicaid recipient during the COVID-19 pandemic can be stressful, to say the least. The ever-evolving policies and constant changes to the healthcare system can make it hard to keep up with what you need to do to maintain your coverage. One thing that you must be aware of is the renewal process. In this blog post, we will discuss what unwinding means, how it affects your Medicaid coverage, and what you need to do when it’s time to renew.
What are Medicaid Renewals/Unwinding?
Unwinding is the process that state Medicaid agencies are using to replace the temporary policies that were established during the COVID-19 pandemic with regular eligibility, enrollment, and benefits management processes. This process may affect your Medicaid coverage, so it’s important to understand what it means. As a Medicaid recipient, you should know that all members have been assigned renewal due dates between June 2023 and May 2024. It’s important to note that members should not renew until they receive their renewal packet in the mail about 45 days before their due date
When will Renewals Start? 
The first group of renewals will start in mid-May for members whose due dates are at the end of June. Therefore, as a recipient, you should make sure to update your address on access.wi.gov so that you can receive information about your renewal date. Once you receive your renewal letter in the mail, make sure you read it carefully to see what your next steps are. You can also reach out to your local Medicaid office if you have any questions about the renewal process.
It’s important to note that any changes you make to your income or household size during the year can affect your eligibility for Medicaid. Therefore, it’s vital to update your information with your local Medicaid office. Also, make sure to submit any required documentation promptly. Failure to do so could result in a loss of coverage.
When it’s time to renew, act by the due date. You do not want to risk losing your Medicaid coverage if you miss the deadline. So, make sure you complete your renewal packet accurately and on time. It’s also important to note that you will be notified if there are any changes to your coverage during the renewal process.
What Should I do the Renew?
As a Medicaid recipient, it’s crucial to stay on top of the unwinding process to ensure that you maintain your coverage. Remember to update your address on my.access.gov, watch for your renewal letter in the mail, read it carefully to see what your next steps are, and act by the due date. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Outreach and Enrollment Specialists. By staying informed and taking the necessary steps, you can ensure that you continue to receive the healthcare coverage you need during these trying times.
You can schedule an appointment with our Outreach and Enrollment Specialists by calling 608-361-0311 who can help walk you through the entire process, check your renewal date, help you find new coverage, and more.
