Testimony Supporting HB 2802: MCO Texting
The Texas Association of Health Plans supports House Bill 2802, which will allow Medicaid beneficiaries to easily receive important health-related updates, including eligibility updates, via text and email from their health plans. The legislation is especially important as the state begins the Medicaid eligibility redetermination process for an estimated 2.7 million Texans who have had continuous coverage as a response to the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE).
During the PHE, Texas managed care organizations (MCOs) used texts to provide members important health updates such as appointment reminders, benefit notices, and COVID-19 updates. However, the impact has been limited while the state continues to operate under an “opt-in” model to communicate. MCOs often hear from their members that the option to opt-in to texting and email on the eligibility application is confusing. Texans report overlooking or misunderstanding instructions when filling out their preferred contact preferences.
Read the full testimony.
