Announcement
Beginning October 1, 2026, significant changes to Medicaid eligibility will affect many newcomer families across the United States. Recent federal policy changes mean that some refugee and other ORR-eligible populations who were previously eligible for Medicaid upon arrival may no longer qualify for coverage. However, some groups, including Cuban and Haitian Entrants (CHEs), as well as Iraqi and Afghan Special Immigrants, generally remain eligible for Medicaid under current guidelines.
For many newcomer families in New Jersey and New York, these changes may create uncertainty about how to access healthcare, fill prescriptions, and receive essential medical services. While alternative options remain available, navigating these systems can be challenging without support. Alternatives may include Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA), employer-sponsored insurance, Marketplace health plans, and Federally Qualified Health Centers that provide affordable care regardless of insurance status. The RMA coverage period has also expanded from four months to eight months for eligible newcomers. [switchboardta.org]
How IRC NY & NJ Are Supporting Clients
At the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in New York and New Jersey, we are proactively working to ensure that clients understand these changes and know what healthcare options remain available to them.
Our teams are:
- Providing timely information and education to clients about changing Medicaid eligibility requirements.
- Helping families understand alternative healthcare coverage options and available community resources.
- Training and equipping caseworkers with the latest guidance so they can confidently answer questions and support families through these transitions.
- Connecting clients with Refugee Medical Assistance, healthcare navigators, community health centers, and other appropriate services.
- Hosting health fairs and workshops to strengthen community education and expand access to trusted healthcare resources.
Access to healthcare is critical for successful integration, family stability, and overall well-being. Our goal is to ensure that every client has clear information and support to navigate these changes.
How You Can Help
Community support is essential during times of transition. You can make a difference by:
- Sharing reliable information about healthcare resources with newcomer families.
- Referring individuals to trusted organizations that provide health coverage and enrollment assistance.
- Supporting refugee-serving organizations and community health providers that help families access care.
- Advocating for equitable access to healthcare and critical services for newcomers.
Together, we can help ensure that refugee, immigrant, and newcomer families continue to access the healthcare and support they need to thrive.
Thank you for standing with our communities!
Warm regards,
IRC New York & New Jersey
Community Engagement Team
For information or questions, contact:
- IRC New Jersey: fiorella.rodriguez@rescue.org
- IRC New York: bethany.dill@rescue.org
