4,494 Enrolled: Low Sign-Ups in Georgia’s Pathways to Coverage Program Sparks Calls for Full Medicaid Expansion

Low Enrollment in Georgia’s Pathways to Coverage Program Sparks Calls for Full Medicaid Expansion

Enrollment in Georgia’s new Pathways to Coverage program is low leading some Democrats to call for a full Medicaid expansion. The Pathways program which started on July 1, 2023 provides Medicaid coverage to low-income Georgians aged 19 to 64 who don’t qualify for traditional Medicaid. Despite this, only 4,494 people had signed up by early July. State Rep. Karen Bennett says the low enrollment shows the need for a broader Medicaid expansion that could cover around 290,000 Georgians who currently don’t have insurance, according to the report of The Center Square.

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(photo: Georgia Recorder)

Medicaid Expansion vs. Pathways Program

Governor Brian Kemp, however, supports the state’s current plan. He believes the Georgia Pathways program fits the state right and argues that expanding Medicaid might lead to high costs and tax increases. He points out that the Pathways program encourages self-sufficiency through requirements like working or volunteering rather than relying on a broader Medicaid expansion.

Critics of Medicaid expansion like Americans for Prosperity-Georgia worry that it could increase the national debt and reduce resources for those in real need. They suggest other solutions, like a Personal Option, to make healthcare more affordable without expanding Medicaid. As the debate continues Georgia’s approach to healthcare remains in question as leaders consider the pros and cons of expanding Medicaid versus sticking with the current plan.

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