ATLANTA, GEORGIA — Leah Chan, Director of Health Justice for the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute (GBPI) has issued a statement expressing deep concern over the substantial decline in Medicaid and PeachCare enrollment for children in Georgia. Recent data reveals a troubling 9% decrease in child enrollment, equivalent to 149,080 children, since March 2023.
In a letter issued today, the Department of Health and Human Services urges Governor Kemp to take immediate steps to prevent eligible children from losing coverage. In the upcoming Legislative Session, GBPI recommends state legislators also address the disenrollments of those aging out of childhood Medicaid and PeachCare by closing the coverage gap. Currently, young adults (19-23 years old) constitute 28% of disenrollments in non-expansion states like Georgia, while those aged 19-34 make up almost half of the state’s coverage gap population. Fully expanding Medicaid, without monthly reporting or work requirements, can ensure all of Georgia’s young people enter adulthood with the access to healthcare that they need to thrive.
Statement from Leah Chan, Director of Health Justice, Georgia Budget and Policy Institute (GBPI):
“The data, showing children account for nearly half (46%) of all Medicaid unwinding coverage losses between March 2023 – September 2023, demands urgent attention. Ensuring access to comprehensive health coverage is not just a policy goal; it is a fundamental commitment to the well-being of our children and the financial security of hardworking families. No child should lose their health coverage due to bureaucratic hurdles or avoidable reasons, especially as we transition from the continuous enrollment provision established during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Our state has taken meaningful actions – including adopting seven of the sixteen ‘waivers’ offered by the federal government to streamline renewals and recently investing $54 million in one-time federal dollars to support eligibility caseworkers and call center staff. However, these new data show that those actions do not go far enough. Every child deserves access to the health care they need to thrive, and GBPI will work tirelessly to ensure that this access is preserved.”
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The Georgia Budget and Policy Institute (GBPI) strives to be an anti-racist research and advocacy organization that advances lasting solutions to expand economic opportunity and well-being for all Georgians. We examine the state’s budget, taxes and public policies to provide thoughtful analysis and responsible solutions that address inequities in our state. We educate the public about complex issues confronting Georgia. We activate Georgians to call for policy solutions that put people first. We aim to inspire informed debate and decision-making, advancing our vision of a fair and inclusive Georgia where everyone can prosper.
