Breaking Barriers: New Initiative Offers Medicaid and CHIP Coverage to Incarcerated Individuals Before Release

Recently, the Department of Health and Human Services launched a new initiative that will offer Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program coverage to incarcerated individuals in several states before their release from prison. The program, called the Medicaid Reentry Section 1115 Demonstration Opportunity, will be implemented in Illinois, Kentucky, Oregon, Utah, and Vermont. Under this initiative, individuals will have access to a range of services including substance-use disorder treatment and treatment for certain behavioral health conditions.

This is an important step towards addressing the needs of incarcerated individuals and ensuring they have access to essential healthcare services as they reenter society. The program will allow these states to offer coverage up to 90 days before an eligible person’s expected release date. In addition to the states mentioned above, other states participating in the program include California, Massachusetts, Montana, and Washington.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve access to healthcare for justice-involved individuals and support their successful reintegration into their communities. By providing coverage prior to release, these states are helping to ensure that individuals have the support they need to overcome barriers to healthcare access and improve their overall well-being. This is an important step towards ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need, regardless of their background or circumstances.