North Carolina outlines key Medicaid program updates and eligibility requirements

The Burke County Pre-Agenda Meeting on June 2, 2025, focused on providing a comprehensive overview of the Medicaid program, its history, and the services it offers to eligible residents. The session aimed to equip attendees with a better understanding of Medicaid's application process and eligibility requirements.

The meeting began with a historical context, noting that Medicaid was established in 1965 as part of President Johnson's War on Poverty initiative. It serves low-income Americans and is an entitlement program, meaning the government is obligated to cover health services for eligible beneficiaries. Each state, including North Carolina, has the authority to set its own standards and determine the scope of services provided.

Key updates highlighted during the meeting included the expansion of Medicaid in North Carolina, which took effect on December 1, 2023. This expansion has made an additional 600,000 adults eligible for full Medicaid coverage, with over 6,000 individuals in Burke County benefiting from this change. The meeting also discussed recent modifications to Medicaid for pregnant women, extending postpartum coverage from 60 days to 12 months.

The presentation outlined the two main categories of Medicaid: Family and Children's Medicaid and Adult Medicaid, along with the expansion program for individuals aged 19 to 64. It emphasized the importance of understanding the eligibility criteria, which include income limits, residency requirements, and proof of identity.

Attendees were informed about the various Medicaid programs available, including long-term care options and the Community Alternative Program (CAP), which allows individuals to receive care at home rather than in institutional settings. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the multiple ways beneficiaries can apply for Medicaid, highlighting the increasing trend of online applications.

Overall, the meeting served as an essential resource for local officials and community members to better understand Medicaid's role in providing health care to low-income individuals and families in Burke County.