In response to news reports that the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services gave personal Medicaid enrollee data to the Department of Homeland Security, the Washington State Health Care Authority has released a statement and a detailed FAQ for Apple Health clients, partners and community-based organizations.
It is unclear exactly what personal information has been shared with DHS or what actions will be taken. HCA and advocacy groups are concerned this information may be used for immigration enforcement.
HCA is required to share certain information with CMS (enrollment information and health care visit information for emergency services). However, as of May 2025, non-emergency medical visit information for people enrolled in Apple Health Expansion will no longer be shared with CMS.
We encourage review of the FAQ and to share the information with Apple Health clients served by your hospital or health system. The FAQ addresses why this happened, whose information was shared, and what to do if you are worried about DHS having client data.
Hospitals care for patients regardless of immigration status. WSHA previously provided guidance on how to prepare for and respond to immigration enforcement activity. If you would like to receive these materials again, please contact us. (Zosia Stanley)