SHELTON, WA – Mason Health is encouraging Mason County residents enrolled in Apple Health (Medicaid) to stay informed and keep their contact information current as federal changes to Medicaid eligibility and enrollment requirements are implemented over the next several years. These changes stem from federal legislation known as H.R. 1 and may affect some Washington residents beginning in October 2026. Mason County residents can seek guidance from the Mason Health Enrollment Liaisons, located at the new Mason Health Patient Financial Services Center at 237 Professional Way in Shelton.

Mason Health encourages all Apple Health (Medicaid) members to verify that their mailing address, phone number and email address are up to date so they can receive important notices regarding their coverage. The Washington State Health Care Authority will use this information to communicate upcoming changes and actions individuals may need to take. Changes will be implemented throughout the next several months. Beginning January 1, 2027, retroactive coverage periods for all Apple Health programs are changing. The process for requesting retroactive coverage remains unchanged 

• Individuals aged 19 – 64 may receive retroactive coverage under Apple Health for Adults one month before their application filing date. 
• Individuals enrolling in any other Apple Health program may receive retroactive coverage two months before their application filing date. This includes individuals who apply for Apple Health through Washington Connection.

“Health insurance is an important part of maintaining access to preventive care, medications and treatment,” said Mason Health CEO Eric Moll. “We want our community members to be aware of these upcoming changes and know there are resources available to help them understand their options.”

Beginning this month, some individuals who currently qualify for Apple Health (Medicaid) based on their immigration status may no longer be eligible for Medicaid coverage. Those potentially affected include:

• Asylees
• Conditional entrants
• Refugees
• Individuals for whom deportation or removal has been withheld
• Victims of human trafficking
• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners
• Certain parolees

Exemptions remain in place for children, pregnant individuals and those within 12 months postpartum. If you lose Apple Health (Medicaid) coverage, you may still have access to affordable health insurance through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange — contact Mason Health’s Enrollment Liaisons (https://www.masonhealth.com/payyourbill) team for more information and assistance.

Through Washington Healthplanfinder, all Washingtonians, regardless of immigration status, can shop for and purchase qualified health and dental plans. Individuals who lose Apple Health coverage may also qualify for a special enrollment period, allowing them to enroll outside the annual open enrollment window. Qualifying life events may include loss of health coverage, job loss, marriage, birth or adoption. Open enrollment for Washington Healthplanfinder runs annually from Nov. 1 through Jan. 15. Residents seeking assistance can visit Washington Healthplanfinder (https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org) or call the Customer Support Center at 1-855-923-4633. 

For more information about Apple Health coverage and upcoming changes, visit the Washington State Health Care Authority website at www.hca.wa.gov. Learn how to update your information at hca.wa.gov/report-a-change. For local assistance, visit the Mason Health Enrollment Liaisons at the Mason Health Patient Services Center at 237 Professional Way in Shelton or call 360-427-3620.