Federal Medicaid Work Rules Omit Homeless Individuals from Exemptions

Why it matters locally: This federal policy decision directly impacts Wyoming's Medicaid program, as the state must adhere to these federal guidelines regarding exemptions for work requirements. Individuals experiencing homelessness in Wyoming who rely on Medicaid could face new barriers to healthcare access.

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Federal policy outlining Medicaid work requirements does not include homelessness among its listed exemptions. Previously, proponents of Medicaid work requirements stated that vulnerable individuals would receive exemptions. However, the federal government's final list of exemptions does not account for homelessness. Izzy Kadrmas, a medical assistant at Partnership Health Center's Watershed Clinic in Missoula, Montana, has worked with individuals seeking healthcare. Tywon Pugh, for example, received blood testing from Kadrmas.