Florida Covering Kids & Families

Several factors contributed to this year’s record-high 4.2 million enrollment in Florida and 21.3 million nationally.

"We could see a pretty significant increase," says Jodi Ray, of Florida Covering Kids & Families, which provides free navigator services to anyone in need. The enrollment period began Wednesday.

Now that pandemic protections are expiring, millions of Floridians will have to reapply for Medicaid and some could lose coverage. But families don't have to go through the process alone.

States are trying to reach millions of Medicaid enrollees to make sure those still eligible remain covered and help others find new health insurance. Experts especially worry about what will become of Florida enrollees.

Jodi Ray, director Florida Covering Kids & Families, says she’s had more resources and new strategies for getting info out. The navigator group has placed an emphasis on application due dates and letting people know where to go for help.

Health care navigators help people sign up for insurance plans available on the Affordable Care Act marketplace.

Navigators at USF have received thousands of calls in need of help sorting through the complexities of the health care market, and leaders expect more people to reach out as the deadline looms closer..

The enrollment period started in March and is open to anyone making 150% of the federal poverty level or less.

After the COVID public health emergency ends this year, funding and continuous coverage requirements go away. A report says Florida's insurance programs for low-income families have more barriers to enrollment than other states.

Jodi Ray of Florida Covering Kids & Families says one reason for the jump may be the Biden administration’s push for more resources toward marketing and outreach, particularly through the American Rescue Plan.