Image via Shutterstock.
Over 20,000 Virginians Lose Medicaid Coverage a Month Into Unwinding

Since the start of April, over 20,000 Virginians have lost Medicaid coverage as part of the state’s return to normal enrollment following the end of the COVID-19 federal public health emergency.  For the past three years, anyone who was enrolled in Medicaid was allowed to keep their coverage regardless of whether or not they still met eligibility requirements.

Photo by Jp Valery on Unsplash
TikTok Trend Spurs Record-Breaking Numbers of Virginians to Cash Out Unclaimed Property

A TikTok trend of people cashing out unclaimed property held by state governments is helping break records in Virginia’s Treasury Department and fill the pockets of Virginians with money they’re rightfully owed.

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash
Expanded Telehealth Services Are ‘Here to Stay’ in Virginia as Public Health Emergency Ends

As the federal public health emergency spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic expires this May, so will waivers that expanded the amount of health care services patients can access through telehealth. 

Altise, a DentaQuest outreach coordinator, speaking to members about adult benefits. (Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services)
Virginia expanded dental coverage under Medicaid — but not enough dentists accept it

Virginia Medicaid enrollees aged 21 and older have had access to comprehensive dental care benefits since July 2021 through a state budget amendment. The numerous services covered, including X-rays, cleanings and fillings, focus on preventing problems and restoring damaged teeth. Prior to this, adults were eligible only for limited care, which mainly just included extractions.

The Virginia General Assembly convened for its 2023 session in Richmond Jan. 11, 2023. (Sarah Vogelsong / Virginia Mercury)
Three Interesting Bills: Selling Children, ‘Swatting’ Penalties and Regulating Vape Products

Hundreds of bills are filed for General Assembly consideration each year. In this occasional series, the Virginia Mercury takes a look at a few of the proposals that might not otherwise make headlines during the whirlwind legislative session.