The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) and the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) will host a virtual Town Hall on August 13, 2026, to discuss significant H.R.1 Medicaid noncitizen eligibility changes set to take effect on October 1, 2026. The session aims to provide an overview of these updates and their potential impact on Medicaid members.
The virtual event, scheduled from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. via Microsoft Teams, will offer information on where to find additional resources. Medicaid members, their families, caregivers, and advocates are encouraged to attend and submit questions in advance to dmasinfo@dmas.virginia.gov for consideration during the Town Hall.
In other news, Cardinal Care reminds members in the Northern Virginia region that Open Enrollment for health plans closes on August 31. This period is an opportunity for members to review their current health plans and compare options to ensure they continue to meet their healthcare needs. A Cardinal Care Managed Care comparison chart is available to assist with this decision-making process, and members are advised to confirm their provider accepts their chosen plan.
Virginia's Medicaid program, known as Cardinal Care, recently marked its 61st anniversary. It currently serves approximately two million Virginians, providing access to a wide range of essential health services, including preventive care, doctor visits, hospital services, behavioral healthcare, maternity care, and prescriptions.