Medicaid Summit covers expansion, new campaign

SIOUX FALLS – When Medicaid expands on July 1, significantly more South Dakotans will qualify for health coverage—and organizations are working hard to spread the news.
The Community HealthCare Association of the Dakotas (CHAD) recently hosted a Medicaid Partners Summit to share vital information on the expansion. More than 100 people joined to learn more about the expansion process and share their experiences. Presentations from CHAD, Get Covered South Dakota, and the SD Department of Social Services covered everything from what the expansion means to who now qualifies and how to connect people with resources.
“As a navigator, I am part of a group of trained local professionals available to help answer general questions, help you complete an application, and help you find a health insurance plan that meets your individual needs,” says Penny Kelley, outreach and enrollment services program manager at CHAD. “With expanded qualifications, individuals with incomes up to about $20,000 per year and families of 4 with an income up to about $40,000 per year will now be able to access great, affordable health insurance through the Medicaid program.”
Marketing agency Fresh Produce also outlined the new statewide campaign for Medicaid expansion. The team shared key takeaways from their research, which included voluntary interviews in clinics, restaurants, and other public spaces to learn about people’s personal experiences with health care. Findings were used to create visuals and messaging that could be easily packaged and mobilized through toolkits. Each attendee received a toolkit with sample text messages, flyers, and social media posts.
“One of the keys to the successful implementation of Medicaid expansion across the country has been a coordinated and effective communications effort. Using research, interviews, and testimonials, the Fresh Produce team crafted the message ‘Medicaid changes everything.’ With a combination of print materials, digital and radio advertising, video, and a host of other tactics, their work will continue to be a crucial tool to make sure people are aware of the benefits of Medicaid and that more people are now eligible, even if they’ve been turned down in the past,” says Shelly Ten Napel, CEO of CHAD.
The change to Medicaid will allow a wider range of adults aged 19-64 to receive health coverage for things like doctor’s visits, dental appointments, prescriptions, and mental health care. No minimum income is required, and adults with or without children can qualify.
Applications for Medicaid are now open. Apply today at dss.sd.gov/applyonline.
For more information on Medicaid expansion, visit GetCoveredSouthDakota.org or call 2-1-1 to connect with a navigator.

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