Idaho exchange enrollment dips due to Medicaid expansion 

BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Fewer people signed up for health insurance under the state's insurance exchange program following Medicaid expansion, state officials said Wednesday.

Officials with Your Health Idaho say nearly 90,000 Idahoans signed up for coverage ahead of the Dec. 16 deadline. That's down about 14,000 participants compared to last year.

"We always knew Medicaid expansion was a possibility, and that as a result, enrollments on the exchange would be impacted," said Pat Kelly, executive director of Your Health Idaho. "We've planned for this change and do not expect to see any material adjustments to our long-term sustainability."

Voters approved Medicaid expansion for low-income residents in 2018 after lawmakers failed to act. Coverage began Jan. 1, and about 53,000 people have so far signed up. Enrollment is open year-round.

State officials say of the 90,000 people participating in the state insurance program, 75% are renewals and 25% are new customers.