In the year after Missouri expanded Medicaid, the state struggled to sign up people for the government-funded health insurance program. Now, more than 1 million Missourians are enrolled. The federal government barred states from kicking anyone off Medicaid during the coronavirus pandemic. But when those protections expire this spring, patients will need to renew their coverage. Advocates and health officials worry that eligible people could drop off the rolls.
The Tap In Center in St. Louis County is one example of legal help that supports underserved people with open warrants. It has saved hundreds from going to jail, so why aren't more counties copying it?