12-Month Continuous Eligibility in Medicaid: Impact on Service Utilization

In this brief, the authors explore whether instituting 12-month continuous eligibility in California's Medicaid program for children (Medi-Cal) has directly benefited enrollees by improving their process of care. Using a difference-in-differences approach, the authors analyzed Medi-Cal eligibility files and claims data to evaluate health care utilization before and after the 12-month continuous eligibility policy was put into place, comparing the utilization changes for continuously covered children with utilization changes for children with discontinuous coverage.

Publication Authors:

• Shana Charles, PhD, MPP
• Livier Cabezas, M.P.Aff.
• Dylan H. Roby, PhD