Priority Health is sharing information only. This information is based on current guidance and may change. MDHHS will send official notices about each person’s Medicaid coverage.
Federal Medicaid rules are changing for some non-citizens who have Michigan Medicaid. These changes are planned to start on October 1, 2026. Not everyone with Medicaid will have a change.
If your coverage may change, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) will send you a notice first.
What this means for you
Your Medicaid coverage may or may not change. MDHHS will review your case and send you a notice if anything changes.
The main thing you can do now is keep your contact information current in MI Bridges. Respond quickly if MDHHS asks for information.
What is changing?
For some people, Medicaid coverage may depend on immigration status.
Some people may:
- Keep full Medicaid coverage
- Change to Emergency Services Only (ESO) coverage
- Have other changes to their Medicaid coverage
MDHHS will review each case.
If MDHHS needs more information, they will contact you. If your coverage changes, they will send a notice.
What you can do now
To help avoid a gap in coverage:
- Make sure your contact information is correct in MI Bridges
- Watch for letters, emails or text messages from MDHHS
- Send any information MDHHS asks for as soon as you can
- Complete renewal forms when you get them
- Keep immigration documents in a safe place in case MDHHS asks for them
We're here to help
Priority Health can help you understand changes to your health coverage.
If you get a notice from MDHHS and have questions, call Priority Health Customer Service. Use the number on the back of your member ID card.
MDHHS decides who qualifies for Medicaid. MDHHS will also send official notices about coverage changes.
Contact your local MDHHS office or call the Beneficiary Help Line if you have questions about:
- Who qualifies for Medicaid
- Renewals
- Documents you need to send
- Your case status
Beneficiary Help Line: 800.642.3195
TTY: 866.501.5656
Frequently asked questions
Who may be affected by these changes?
Who may be affected by these changes?
Some non-citizens who have Michigan Medicaid may be affected starting October 1, 2026.
Your coverage may depend on your immigration status and other Medicaid rules.
Who can keep full Medicaid coverage?
Who can keep full Medicaid coverage?
MDHHS says some groups can get full Medicaid coverage if they meet all other rules.
These groups may include:
- Lawful permanent residents, also called green card holders, who meet the five-year rule or do not have to meet it
- Cuban/Haitian entrants
- Compact of Free Association migrants
Most pregnant people and children under age 21 who lawfully live in Michigan may also keep full coverage.
What is Emergency Services Only coverage?
What is Emergency Services Only coverage?
Emergency Services Only coverage is also called ESO.
ESO helps pay for care during a serious medical emergency.
What does ESO not cover?
What does ESO not cover?
ESO does not pay for many regular health care services.
It does not cover:
- Regular doctor visits
- Checkups
- Care to help you stay healthy
- Ongoing care for long-term health problems
- Most prescription drugs
- Medical care that is not an emergency
How will I know if my coverage is changing?
How will I know if my coverage is changing?
MDHHS will send you a notice if your coverage is changing.
The notice will explain:
- What is changing
- What coverage you will have
- Any appeal rights you may have
Will this affect other people in my household?
Will this affect other people in my household?
No.
Medicaid is reviewed separately for each person.
If your coverage changes, it does not change coverage for your family members automatically.
Are there other ways to get healthcare?
Are there other ways to get healthcare?
You may be able to get health coverage through the Marketplace if you are:
- A U.S. citizen
- A U.S. national
- An immigrant who is legally in the U.S.
Some people may be able to get help lowering their monthly costs.
You can also get a free quote to learn about available health plans.
What should I do if MDHHS asks about my immigration status?
What should I do if MDHHS asks about my immigration status?
Reply as soon as you can.
MDHHS may ask for documents to check your information. Send them quickly to help avoid delays or gaps in your coverage.
In most cases, you can send documents through MI Bridges. You can also work with your MDHHS caseworker.
PRI-0826-176