A new study has found that Black and Hispanic Americans are twice as likely as white Americans to lose Medicaid coverage following the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency. The analysis, conducted by the Urban Institute, highlights the disproportionate impact on communities of color as states begin to unwind the expanded Medicaid eligibility put in place during the pandemic.
According to the report, an estimated 15 million people could lose Medicaid coverage once the emergency declaration expires. However, the risk is significantly higher for Black and Hispanic individuals, with 12.3% and 13.5% projected to lose coverage, respectively, compared to just 6.3% of white enrollees.
Researchers attribute this disparity to several factors, including higher rates of income volatility and job loss among minority populations, as well as language barriers and limited access to resources that could help maintain coverage. The findings underscore the need for targeted outreach and assistance to ensure vulnerable communities do not fall through the cracks as the nation transitions out of the pandemic.
The Urban Institute’s study sheds light on the ongoing health disparities faced by communities of color and the importance of addressing these inequities in the post-pandemic landscape. Policymakers and healthcare providers must work together to develop strategies that prioritize the needs of underserved populations and promote equitable access to healthcare.
See: “Blacks and Hispanics are twice as likely to lose Medicaid after COVID-19 eligibility expansion ended” (June 4, 2024)
