Arizona Expands Medicaid Access for Youth Leaving Incarceration
Phoenix – Arizona is implementing a major change to how Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program serve youth involved in the justice system. Since October 1, 2025, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) has allowed eligible youth to access certain health services up to 30 days before their release from incarceration. The change follows new federal guidance under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023.
The change is aimed at closing gaps in care that historically occurred when Medicaid coverage paused during incarceration. Previously, youth often faced long wait times for intake appointments after release, leaving them vulnerable during a critical transition period.
This policy change is a commitment to continuity of care and public safety. By ensuring youth have access to Medicaid before and after release, AHCCCS is helping them build a foundation for success.
Currently, prerelease services are available for youth leaving the Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections, with plans to expand to additional facilities in the coming months and years.
Arizona has been a leader in addressing coverage gaps. Since 2017, its Enrollment Suspense Initiative has paused rather than terminated Medicaid coverage for individuals entering correctional facilities, making it easier to restart services upon release.
The state is also preparing to implement a broader initiative under its Section 1115 Reentry Demonstration, approved in 2023 by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. That program will provide integrated health services to incarcerated youth and adults for up to 90 days before release. It is part of Reentry 2030; a bipartisan effort launched by Gov. Katie Hobbs to improve outcomes for justice-involved individuals and enhance public safety. Led by the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry in partnership with AHCCCS and federal agencies, the initiative also focuses on workforce development, vocational training and apprenticeships.
These efforts reflect Arizona’s commitment to building a more supportive system for individuals impacted by the justice system, reducing recidivism, and improving health outcomes statewide.
