Maximizing Connections to Health Coverage and Benefits
Connecting Texans to health insurance coverage and public benefits like Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, Affordable Care Act marketplace health plans, and other programs provides a link to critical services that support and improve health and well-being. EHF supports organizations that help Texans understand their options, navigate the enrollment process, and access and use the benefits. These programs tackle underlying, non-medical causes of poor health by addressing food insecurity, preventing and treating illnesses, and reducing overall health inequities for under-resourced Texans. By maximizing connections to critical health coverage and benefits, EHF aims not only to increase access but help prioritize the utilization of these important services.
EHF believes that maximizing connections to health insurance coverage and benefits creates lifelines for improved health. Millions of Texans do not have health insurance, so they often struggle with chronic illnesses and experience worse overall health. This gap in health insurance coverage creates financial burdens for families and governments alike. Bridging this gap requires reaching hard-to-reach communities and ensuring they have opportunities to improve their health in ways that work for them. Likewise, stigma and shame keep many Texans from enrolling in other public benefits that would help address non-medical needs that impact health.
Through strategies like proactive eligibility screening, education, and ongoing engagement, EHF will support organizations that help Texans fully utilize these programs and insurance plans, improving health outcomes and building stronger, healthier communities. EHF’s commitment to addressing non-medical factors that impact well-being and ensuring all Texans have a fair opportunity to good health makes it uniquely suited to support efforts to maximize connections to health coverage and benefits.
