FLINT, Mich. (AP) — The federal government is extending Medicaid health insurance to Flint residents up to age 21 and to pregnant women who were exposed to lead in the city’s water supply.
Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell says 15,000 people will qualify and 30,000 current Medicaid recipients will be eligible for more services. They’ll qualify for lead monitoring of their blood as well as behavioral health services.
Flint used the Flint River for drinking water for 18 months, but the corrosive water allowed lead to leach from old plumbing. The city switched water sources last fall.
Gov. Rick Snyder’s office says Medicaid coverage will be available to people of all incomes, but some people at certain levels may need to pay to get full benefits.
