The annual 50-state survey of state officials on Medicaid and state budget actions reports enrollment in Medicaid declined for the first time in nearly a decade.  The 0.5 percent enrollment decline in fiscal year 2007 was driven primarily by two factors.  States reported that the new citizenship documentation requirements were causing significant delays in processing applications, affecting mostly individuals already eligible for the program.  State officials also cited the good economy and lower unemployment for reducing enrollment.  Faced with an improving economy, 42 states expect to expand coverage to the uninsured in the next year.

 Press Release

 As Tough Times Wane, States Act to Improve Medicaid Coverage and Quality:  Results from a 50-State Medicaid Budget Survey for State Fiscal Years 2007 and 2008

 Audio of Reporter Briefing      Podcast of Reporter Briefing

 Presentation Slides from Briefing (.pdf)

Also released:

 State Fiscal Conditions and Medicaid

 Why Did Medicaid Spending Decline in 2006?  A Detailed Look at Program Spending and Enrollment, 2000-2006

 Medicaid Enrollment in 50 States, June 2006 Update

 Medicaid Enrollment and Spending Trends fact sheet