CVCH renames enrollment team ahead of Apple Health eligibility changes

WENATCHEE — Columbia Valley Community Health has renamed its Member Services department to Access and Enrollment Services, a change intended to make the team’s role clearer as new Apple Health eligibility rules approach.

The team helps individuals and families navigate Washington Healthplanfinder, compare insurance plans and enroll in coverage. Its assistance is available to community members whether or not they are CVCH patients, according to the organization.

Staff also help people explore financial assistance, including CVCH’s Sliding Fee Discount Program, which reduces the cost of care for eligible patients. They can explain the medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and support services offered through CVCH.

The new name comes ahead of federal eligibility changes taking effect Oct. 1 for certain noncitizen adults enrolled in Washington Apple Health, the state’s Medicaid program. Some refugees, asylees and people with other immigration statuses may no longer qualify for certain Apple Health coverage and could need help finding another option.

The changes do not apply in the same way to every household member. Washington Healthplanfinder says children and pregnant people, including those within 12 months after giving birth, can still apply for Apple Health regardless of immigration status. People of any immigration status can also seek health and dental insurance through the state marketplace, though the coverage and financial help available depend on individual circumstances.

CVCH said its enrollment staff can help people understand how the changing rules affect them, review plans available through Healthplanfinder and look into other resources that may reduce their health care costs. The organization hopes people will seek assistance before a change in eligibility leads to a gap in coverage.

The department’s work is continuing under its new name. CVCH said it chose “Access and Enrollment Services” to better reflect the help it provides both with obtaining insurance and with connecting people to care.

People with questions about Apple Health eligibility, insurance options, financial assistance or CVCH services can call 509-662-6000 and ask for Access and Enrollment Services.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media