New this year, Pennie has auto-renewed consumers at the beginning of the enrollment period instead of at the end as in previous enrollment periods under the federal marketplace, Healthcare.gov. Also, enrollment assisters have observed more consumers qualifying for Medicaid coverage (Medical Assistance) due to COVID-19, after previously qualifying for marketplace coverage. Medicaid enrollment has risen steadily since the beginning of the pandemic declaration partially due to the moratorium on cancellation of coverage due to loss of eligibility or changes in income and new consumers qualifying due to income and coverage loss. Medical Assistance enrollment topped the 3 million mark in July. This further solidifies the need for enrollment assisters at our community health centers to help consumers navigate the complex health insurance waters.
