Medicaid Eligibility Changes and Continuity of Care for Refugees with Disabilities and Chronic Health Conditions.

The 2025 Tax and Budget Law (Public Law 119 - 21 [H.R. 1]) introduces Medicaid eligibility changes affecting several humanitarian groups, including refugees. These changes may have important implications for refugees with disabilities and chronic health conditions, who often depend on continuous access to healthcare during a critical period of resettlement. This article discusses the potential effects of changes to Medicaid eligibility on continuity of care and highlights administrative considerations for state governments, federal agencies, healthcare systems, and resettlement organizations. Emergency-only coverage is unlikely to address ongoing healthcare and disability-related needs, underscoring the importance of coordinated efforts to minimize avoidable disruptions in access to care. Early planning and interagency collaboration may help preserve continuity of services and reduce strain on safety-net systems serving refugees with complex health needs.