Medicaid Initiatives in Massachusetts and Oregon Will Expand Coverage, Address Hunger and Housing Needs, and Create Healthier Communities
Washington DC — Yesterday, the Biden-Harris administration approved two Medicaid waivers to expand health care coverage and reduce inequities in care. The waiver in Oregon guarantees continuous Medicaid coverage for children through the age of six. In Massachusetts, the Biden-Harris administration approved a waiver expanding coverage to vulnerable groups, including homeless individuals, postpartum people, and those recently released from correctional facilities. Both waivers will also help address unmet social needs, including nutrition and housing. In response, Protect Our Care Chair Leslie Dach issued the following statement:
“The initiatives approved by the Biden-Harris administration will pave the way for healthier people and communities. By expanding health care coverage, taking steps to combat hunger and housing instability, and addressing other unmet social needs, these waivers will improve health outcomes for thousands of families across Massachusetts and Oregon. Expanding Medicaid coverage is a proven way to reduce racial inequities in health care, strengthen families, and save lives. This is just the latest health care victory from the Biden-Harris administration: between stopping surprise billing, strengthening maternal care, and lowering premium and prescription drug costs through the Inflation Reduction Act, President Biden has made health care more accessible, affordable, and equitable for the American people.”