Communicating Big Changes to Health Care Coverage

Millions of Americans will see major changes to health insurance coverage beginning in 2026. The health care tax credits that help people afford coverage through the ACA Marketplace plans expire at the end of this year. Also, Medicaid eligibility is changing due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed into law this summer. From large health insurance companies to community-based health agencies, the impact for constituents will be significant.

Hear from communications leaders coping with these changes:

Josh Wilson, MBA
Senior Director, External Communications
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

and

Nicole Stickel
Managing Director, Communications
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

Josh and Nicole will share an integrated, multi-faceted communication campaign they are launching to urge Congress to keep coverage affordable and extend the health care tax credits before they expire on  Dec. 31. The tax credits make coverage through the ACO Marketplace affordable. If they expire, premiums will nearly double on average and an estimated five million Americans will lose health coverage entirely, including nearly two million people with chronic conditions.  

James Shackelford, APR
Chief Executive Officer at Lifelong: Health for All
Seattle, Washington

Lifelong helps clients throughout Washington State, most with chronic conditions, gain access to nutritious food, housing and health care. More than 80% of its funding comes from government sources and most of its clients count on Medicaid to fund their health care needs. James will describe his organization’s concerns for client access to the comprehensive services they need, and the ramped-up role for advocacy communications in the current environment.

Hosted by the Health Academy Section. Paid registration for non-Health Academy and IPA Section members includes the live webinar and video playback for one month.