Medicaid expansion benefiting new enrollees

A new report shows that the Medicaid expansion is benefiting new enrollees.
A new report shows that the Medicaid expansion is benefiting new enrollees. | shutterstock

A new report has been released summarizing up-to-date research that shows that 78 percent of new Medicaid enrollees have specified that without the Medicaid expansion to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), they would not have the resources to receive care on a regular basis.

In addition to the number of people who rely on the Medicaid expansion under the ACA, 93 percent of new enrollees have said that they are satisfied with their health plans and 92 percent have said that they are satisfied with their doctors.

The research has also revealed that new enrollee financial wellbeing has improved under the Medicaid expansion. This has led to a decrease in unpaid bills, and third-party collections have been reduced by $600 to $1,000 per person in the expansion states.

“Today’s report is a clear reminder of the important role Medicaid expansion plays in improving access to quality, affordable care while addressing and improving overall health for millions of Americans," Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell said. "This Administration remains committed to working with all remaining states toward Medicaid expansion so they too can realize lower uninsured rates, healthier populations, and significant economic benefits.”