States urged to use low-cost, scalable outreach for Medicaid enrollees facing 2027 eligibility changes

States must begin notifying Medicaid beneficiaries about upcoming eligibility changes by September, as required by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. The changes, set to take effect in 2027, introduce work requirements and twice-yearly eligibility checks that could lower enrollment numbers.

The legislation mandates that each state use at least two outreach methods, but leaves the choice of channels to the states themselves. Officials worry the new rules may create confusion for enrollees trying to understand their obligations.

A recent study by health-policy researchers examined which communication approaches are most cost-effective, scalable, and impactful. The analysis identified low-cost, high-reach tactics that could help states meet the outreach requirement without excessive spending.

The authors suggest that states adopt these evidence-based methods to reduce administrative burden and improve enrollment continuity as the 2027 deadline approaches.