Medicaid and CHIP: It’s Up to You to Renew

With Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) patients and physicians participating in Medical Assistance (MA), known as Medicaid, and patients participating in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), we want to ensure everyone is aware of recent changes involving these programs. Last year, automatic, continuous coverage of Medicaid and CHIP ended in Pennsylvania. It means that everyone with Medicaid or CHIP coverage will need to submit a renewal each year, including in 2024, to see if they are eligible. 

The first step is to make sure the information the Department of Human Services (DHS) has for you is correct. You can check and update your phone number, email and mailing address through Pennsylvania’s COMPASS website. (You can also sign up on the site for text or email alerts to get information faster when it is your time to renew.)

Signing up for COMPASS is free. Visit COMPASS, select “Register” and create an account using your personal information. You can also choose MyCOMPASS PA, the mobile app. This lets you look up your benefits anywhere, any time; review information; check the status of applications you submit; upload documents and report changes – all from your phone.

If you cannot access COMPASS, update your contact information by calling the DHS Customer Service Center at 1-877-395-8930.

Once you make certain DHS has your correct contact information, you will receive a renewal information packet about 90 days before it is due. This will arrive by mail. Everyone’s renewal date is different so be on the lookout for mailings from Medicaid and CHIP.

There are four ways you can complete your renewal:

1. Online: Apply for renewal through COMPASS.
2. By Mail: Fill out and return the application you receive via mail in the envelope provided.
3. In Person: Fill out a renewal application in person at your county assistance office.
4. By Phone: Call 1-866-550-4355 to complete your application with a customer service representative.

If you are no longer eligible for Medicaid or CHIP or you do not return your packet, you will receive a notice in the mail indicating the date your coverage will end. If you are not eligible, you can access health coverage choices through Pennie, Pennsylvania's official health insurance marketplace.