The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has approved Georgia’s request to extend its Pathways to Coverage Medicaid program through the end of 2026. Without this extension, the program was slated to expire on September 30, 2025. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta
What the Program Does & Who It Serves
Pathways to Coverage ties Medicaid eligibility to certain qualifying activities, such as working, volunteering, or studying. Applicants must demonstrate participation in one or more of these activities to maintain coverage. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta
According to the governor’s office, over 15,000 Georgians are currently enrolled in the program. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta
Key Changes in the Extension
When Georgia applied for the extension earlier this year, the state proposed several updates designed to ease the burden on participants and the state:
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Broader qualifying criteria
Parents or legal guardians of children under age six who are enrolled in Medicaid will now be recognized as engaging in qualifying activity—expanding eligibility beyond the prior list of work, volunteering, or education. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta -
Reduced reporting requirements
Instead of frequent reporting, individuals will only need to submit their qualifying activity and hours when they first apply and later during annual renewals. This aligns with how other Medicaid programs operate in Georgia and is meant to reduce administrative costs. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta -
Retroactive coverage policy
Under the new policy, coverage will begin on the first day of the month in which the application is filed. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta
Political Discussion and Criticism
Supporters say this extension affirms Georgia’s approach to targeted Medicaid expansion. Gov. Brian Kemp praised the decision, calling it a step forward in providing health coverage to hardworking Georgians. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta
However, critics—including U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock—have pushed back. Warnock argued that the program effectively blocks access to care while creating profits for consultants. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta
A 2024 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office flagged concerns about the program’s administrative costs relative to its benefit payouts. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta
Still, state officials point to data showing that more Georgians are covered under Pathways plus the state’s Georgia Access portal than what would have resulted from a full Medicaid expansion—allegedly at a lower overall cost.
(Photo by: Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
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