Navigating the complexities of healthcare and travel as an immigrant can be daunting. This article addresses a crucial question: Can An Immigrant Travel To Florida, particularly in the context of healthcare access and public health emergencies? We’ll explore the eligibility for Medicaid, COVID-19 related services, and other vital information for immigrants in the Sunshine State.
The national public health emergency, initially declared on January 27, 2020, has significantly impacted healthcare access across the United States, including Florida. Let’s delve into how this affects immigrants and their ability to travel and receive care in Florida.
Medicaid and the Public Health Emergency
During the COVID-19 public health emergency, significant changes were implemented regarding Medicaid eligibility to ensure continuous coverage.
Initially, on March 31, 2020, Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) announced that no Medicaid recipient would lose eligibility during the public health emergency. The only exceptions were if the individual ceased to be a state resident or requested voluntary termination. This decision was in line with the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which prohibited states from ending coverage for recipients enrolled as of March 18th, provided the state opted for an enhanced federal Medicaid match.
However, it’s crucial to note that as of October 1, 2020, redetermination and recertification times were reinstated. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) began sending letters for case reviews to check ongoing eligibility. Despite these reviews, Medicaid coverage was maintained throughout the public health emergency.
Extended Application Time and Unemployment Payments
To further ease access to Medicaid, Florida initially extended the time for submitting documentation required to process an application to 120 days. This policy, effective for applications filed in February 2020, ensured eligibility would be effective from the first day of the month the application was received. However, this policy was rescinded on July 1, 2021. Medicaid applications submitted after this date may be denied 30 days after application or the day after verification information is due.
Additionally, the $600/week of additional unemployment insurance payments under the CARES Act were not counted as income when determining Medicaid eligibility, although they were considered for marketplace subsidy calculations.
Coverage of Medicaid Services During the State of Emergency
The state of emergency brought several changes to Medicaid services, including:
- Coverage of all medically necessary services for COVID-19 testing and treatment.
- Waiver of limits on services needed to maintain the health and safety of recipients diagnosed with COVID-19.
- Waiver of copayments for all services.
- Waiver of limits on early prescription refills, except for controlled substances.
- Coverage of a 90-day supply of maintenance prescriptions when available.
- Reimbursement of out-of-state providers offering medically necessary services to Florida Medicaid beneficiaries.
COVID-19 Vaccines and Immigrants in Florida
In March 2021, Governor DeSantis revised the vaccine distribution plan, which applies to the general public, including Medicaid enrollees. This revision lowered the age requirement to 40 effective March 29, 2021, and then opened eligibility to all Floridians on April 5, 2021.
Notably, a public health advisory issued on April 29, 2021, specified that COVID-19 vaccines were available to “a Florida resident” or someone “who is present in Florida for the purpose of providing goods or services for the benefits of residents and visitors of the State of Florida.” This policy effectively removed the previous requirement for proof of Florida residency, thus paving the way for migrants to access vaccines.
Medicaid enrollees were provided with transportation assistance to vaccine appointments, emphasizing the state’s commitment to ensuring access. The state also launched an email system to bring COVID-19 vaccines to homebound seniors.
The Public Charge Rule and Medicaid
It’s important to emphasize that the public charge rule does not apply to immigrants’ use of Medicaid benefits for COVID-19 testing and treatment. This means that using these services will not negatively impact an immigrant’s green card application.
Implications for Immigrant Travel to Florida
Considering the above information, immigrants can travel to Florida with the assurance that healthcare services, particularly those related to COVID-19, are accessible regardless of residency status. The state’s policies during the public health emergency have aimed to ensure that everyone, including immigrants, has access to necessary medical care.
Conclusion
For immigrants considering travel to Florida, it’s essential to stay informed about current healthcare policies and emergency provisions. While this overview provides valuable insights, consulting with legal and healthcare professionals can offer personalized guidance based on individual circumstances.
By understanding the available resources and protections, immigrants can navigate their healthcare needs effectively while traveling to or residing in Florida.
References
- Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA): https://ahca.myflorida.com/
- Department of Children and Families (DCF): https://www.myflfamilies.com/
- Florida’s COVID-19 Response: https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/
- USCIS on Public Charge Rule: https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/public-charge
