Michigan lost 130,000 enrollments in marketplace plans in February 2026, part of a national wave of dropoffs.
Michigan Health Watch
In-depth reporting on the intersection between public policy and important health topics ‒ such as insurance coverage, hospital admissions, opioid abuse, access to care, medical research and the business of health care ‒ that impact nearly every Michigan resident.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
With six months to go, will Michigan be ready for massive Medicaid overhaul?
Nearly 700K Michiganders must work or somehow be engaged in the community at least 80 hours a month or lose their benefits. Some people are exempt — like the ‘medically frail,’ but it’s still unclear how they can prove they are.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
New federal rules for Medicaid: Here’s what’s changing in Michigan
Nearly 400 pages of federal guidance left a lot unanswered questions for Michigan as it tries to prepare for sweeping changes in Medicaid. But some pieces did become clearer.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Sturgis closure may be ‘first of more’ for Michigan rural hospitals
After more than 100 years, Michigan’s only federally recognized rural emergency hospital closed its doors citing ‘years of ongoing financial challenges.’ Experts say more could follow given the current health care landscape.
Posted inMichigan Government, Michigan Health Watch
Did Rx Kids lose $20M in Michigan budget deal? Depends who you ask
Rx Kids, an infant and maternal health program, says it’s still eligible for state funds omitted from next year’s budget. A top House official says no way.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Is ignoring a child’s doctor ‘neglect’? Michigan bill would allow an exception
A Michigan mom’s embrace of ‘holistic’ medicine for her daughter’s condition triggered a CPS investigation. Her story prompted a bill that would redefine medical neglect for parents who refuse the advice of their doctors.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Medicare rolls out $50 GLP-1 drugs. ‘Pandemonium’ ahead for Michigan doctors?
A new Medicare program offers some beneficiaries GLP-1 drugs at just $50 a month for weight loss, but the program is temporary, and eligibility rules could shut out many patients.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
As health care costs rise, could Michigan offer its own insurance?
Senate Democrats once again are floating a plan to replace the federal health insurance exchange with one run by Michigan, a first step toward the state offering its own ‘basic health plan.’
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan forgives $200M in medical debt. Should it help prevent debt instead?
About 690,000 Michigan residents have some form of medical debt. The state has put up $4.5 million to erase some of it.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Hospice program gives veterans final salute from fellow Michigan veterans
As Vietnam veterans age, Hospice of Michigan’s veteran volunteers honor their service.