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Wednesday, November 13, 2024

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Matt Gaetz resigns from Congress, ending ethics probe after Trump nominated him for attorney general; Trump's performance in Maryland keeps other races tight; New research finds Americans like public pensions; WI wave of racist texts sparks concerns over data privacy.

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Trump promises a smooth transition this time. South Dakota Sen. John Thune will lead that chamber's new majority, and one failed bill could be an omen of what a GOP trifecta in Washington will bring.

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An urban vote slump, not the rural electorate, tipped the presidential election. Minnesota voters approved more lottery money to support conservation and clean water. And a survey shows strong broadband lets rural businesses boom.

NM Medicaid, Medicare enrollees qualify for extra health insurance coverage

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Tuesday, November 12, 2024   

Nearly 13 million people nationwide, including 785,000 in New Mexico who receive Medicare and Medicaid, may also qualify for even more coverage under a Dual Special Needs Plan.

Heidi Capriotti, deputy division director of the state's Medical Assistance Division said nearly 40% of the state's population is low-income. She noted the additional coverage option is for people who may need more help because of disabilities, age or health conditions.

"We're talking about older people who are lower-income, potentially more vulnerable population," Krapfl outlined. "Streamlining care and getting their services aligned makes a lot of sense."

In 2023, more than 5 million people were enrolled in dual plans. This year's deadline to enroll is Dec. 7.

Marian Cabanillas of UnitedHealthcare Community and State, said the dual plan provides benefits not typically associated with standard health coverage, including healthy food, such as fruits and vegetables and meat and even over-the-counter products such as toothpaste. She believes people tend to put off health care when they are unsure if they can afford it, and a dual plan could help alleviate the fear.

"The earlier that we can diagnose and treat issues, the better you have of a chance of having better outcomes," Cabanillas explained.

Cabanillas added for people who qualify, dual plans can also be used to help pay utility bills. Millions of people who are eligible for the plans are not enrolled, perhaps because they do not know it is an option.

Disclosure: UnitedHealthcare contributes to our fund for reporting on Health Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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