Oklahomans At Risk Of Losing SoonerCare Coverage After Changes In Federal Regulations

Thousands of Oklahomans are at risk of losing their SoonerCare coverage after changes in federal regulations in the coming months.

Owner of Novastar Family Medicine Natalie Jones says nearly half of their clients use SoonerCare and she is now working to increase awareness about the big changes ahead. Jones is now communicating with her patients including calling and sending text messages about the changes.

Due to the expiration of Covid-19 benefits, the eligibility for all recipients of SoonerCare is being re-evaluated. The state estimates about 300-thousand people will lose coverage over the next nine-month period.

SoonerCare is disenrolling members who have become ineligible during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A series of letters will be sent to people at risk of being disenrolled. During the re-evaluation, Jones encourages clients to follow all requirements of the program.

“You need to see your doctor and if your doctor orders blood work go get the blood work done. If they order scans get the scans complete because that shows that you are utilizing your insurance. Then people with chronic health conditions like hypertension, and diabetes, those will be the ones least likely to lose their insurance,” Natalie Jones, Family Nurse Practitioner Medicine, said.

People disenrolled from SoonerCare will be submitted for the Affordable Care Marketplace starting April 30. Jones also encourages people to look at resources in the community as well.

To help people stay in compliance she’s also willing to offer virtual visitations.