CMS: More than 15.7 million enroll in Medicaid/CHIP since October 2013

More than 15.7 million people enrolled in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program between Oct. 1, 2013 and Aug. 31, 2016, increasing total enrollment in the programs by 28% since the start of the first open enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace, according to a report released today by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The preliminary estimate is based on 49 states reporting both August enrollment data and baseline data from July through September 2013. More than 73.1 million people were enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP in those states as of Aug. 31, with Medicaid expansion states showing a 35.8% increase and non-expansion states showing a 12.5% increase. The Affordable Care Act’s Health Insurance Marketplace launched its fourth open enrollment period Nov. 1, which runs through Jan. 31. For coverage starting Jan. 1, consumers must sign up by Dec. 15. Individuals can apply for Medicaid and CHIP through the Marketplace or their state’s Medicaid/CHIP agency. Medicaid and CHIP enrollment continues year round.