The South Dakota Department of Social Services is lowering its projections for average monthly Medicaid enrollees covered by expansion.
As the department rolls out Medicaid expansion, enrollment is slower than anticipated.
Last year, the department expected average monthly enrollment of 57,000. Going forward, the department is budgeting for an average enrollment of 40,000.
That’s about 17,000 less than anticipated last year.
Officials say they’re seeing less utilization. They say those who qualify get enrolled after they interact with the health care system.
Critics worry the strategy is costing the state more up front. They say the state should be proactive in getting people enrolled so they can take advantage of preventative care.
In 2022, South Dakota voters approved expanding Medicaid to a family of four making $43,000 a year or less.
