Scam artists have seen an opportunity in the efforts to keep people enrolled, calling or texting with threats that people’s health insurance will be canceled if they don’t hand over money or personal information. The state Medicaid agency won’t ask for your Social Security number or banking or credit card information over the phone.
McGinnis estimated they have successfully contacted about 37,000 households, though she couldn’t say how many they haven’t been able to reach. Community organizations and health care providers are also reaching out, she said. The state planned for this for some time and, so far, there haven’t been any major surprises, Gordon said. Unfortunately, however, it seems many people still aren’t aware they need to update their contact information with the state and take other steps to stay covered, he said.