DACA recipients struggle after changes in eligibility under Affordable Care Act
jose.romo
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) — Healthcare coverage for DACA recipients is seeing a change. Covered California is reporting that thousands of individuals with DACA will no longer be eligible for coverage under the Affordable Care Act come the end of August.
“If one of the parents might be on Medi-Cal, they’re not gonna lose their coverage,” says Doug McKeever, Chief Deputy Executive Director for Covered California. “They will continue to be covered by Medi-Cal. It’s only those who are identified as a DACA recipient who will be impacted by this decision.”
This comes after the Trump administration deemed “dreamers” as ineligible, changing the definition of lawfully present to exclude DACA recipients.
“With that federal money going away, they’re now gonna be required to pay the full (amount),” adds McKeever. “So there are some really difficult and tough decisions that are gonna need to be made by the DACA recipients on whether they even remain covered because they may not be able to afford to do so.”
Doug explains that it is difficult to estimate the overall change in premiums these individuals will face, as each coverage plan is different. They recommend calling the county Medi-Cal offices to check if they are eligible.
Data from Covered California estimates that 2,300 DACA recipients will be affected by this decision change. Meanwhile, Hartnell College is saying they are ready to continue providing resources to its students.
“Being a student is stressful anyway, but then having that additional layer of undocumented status or being from a mixed-status family adds that additional layer of stress.”
Gabriela Lopez with Hartnell College understands that this adds a burden to some students who already face various struggles. Through a partnership with the UFW, they can access free legal consultations.
“We also offer mental health support services. We work with a licensed clinical social worker from the community that you’ll offer support groups, not only here at the main campus in Salinas, but also at our South County educational centers.
Covered California adds that DACA recipients have the remaining thirty days to seek health coverage alternatives. Their office is reaching out via mail and phone calls to inform those who will be impacted.