Better Together: Stay Covered
Don’t risk a gap in your healthcare. We’re here to help you update your info, submit your forms, and keep your coverage secure.
H.R.1 Federal Work Requirements
Changes are coming to health coverage in our community, and we want to make sure you have everything you need to stay covered. Under the federal H.R.1 law signed by President Trump, new work and volunteer requirements will take effect starting January 1, 2027, for many adults between the ages of 19 and 64 who have QUEST (Medicaid) coverage. This page is designed to keep you informed, guide you through the upcoming updates, and help you understand how these rules apply to you or your family.
Latest from H.R.1 Updates
Recent articles tagged HR1 & Medicaid Eligibility.
The First Step to Protect Your QUEST (Medicaid) Coverage
Some changes are coming to Hawaii’s QUEST (Medicaid) program, and keeping your contact information up to date is the first and most important step to keeping your coverage.
Understanding H.R.1
President Trump signed H.R.1 into law, which created new federal requirements for most adults between the ages of 19-64 in order to keep Med-QUEST coverage.
These new work/community engagement requirements take effect January 1, 2027. Some people will not need to meet these requirements because they are exempt.
Championing Our Communities: Education, Advocacy, and Action for Medicaid Awareness Month
Education, advocacy, and clarity — how AlohaCare is working to keep Hawai‘i covered during Medicaid Awareness Month.
Community Resources
Aloha United Way
Connect to Local Programs and Services.
Find essential healthcare resources, navigate public assistance programs and connect to local job search services or community volunteer opportunities.
Kanu Hawaiʻi
Fulfill Your H.R.1 Work Hours Through Volunteering
Need to fulfill community engagement hours to maintain your health coverage? Discover local volunteer opportunities that count toward your requirements with Kanu Hawaii
FAQs
What is H.R.1?
H.R.1 refers to new federal Medicaid requirements that may affect eligibility, renewal processes, community engagement requirements, reporting obligations, and member retention activities for certain Medicaid populations. AlohaCare is working closely with the State of Hawaii Medicaid program (MQD), community health centers, providers, and other partners to support implementation.
Why is AlohaCare involved?
AlohaCare supports members in maintaining coverage and accessing care. The organization is evaluating operational workflows, member communications, data sharing processes, outreach strategies, and partnerships that help members navigate new requirements.
What are community engagement requirements?
Community engagement requirements under H.R.1 ask certain Medicaid members to complete qualifying activities—such as work, volunteering, education, or caregiving—to maintain coverage.
Why are these changes happening?
Beginning in January 1, 2027, affected Medicaid members must meet community engagement requirements by:
- Working,
- Participating in community service/volunteering,
- Attending school, or
- Meeting certain income thresholds.
Additionally, eligibility renewals will occur every six months instead of annually for the affected population.
When do the changes take effect?
The changes are scheduled to begin on January 1, 2027. Members will receive communications from Med-QUEST, including notices regarding renewal requirements and next steps.
How do I keep my coverage?
Affected members may maintain coverage by:
- Working, volunteering, and/or attending school for at least 80 hours per month, or
- Earning at least $580 per month before taxes.
Members should also keep their Med-QUEST account and contact information current to receive renewal notices and instructions.
At AlohaCare, Your Health is in Caring Hands
AlohaCare is a nonprofit health plan created in 1994 by Hawaiʻi’s community health centers and Queen Emma Clinics. We support people of all ages who qualify for government-funded health plans. We are proud to be the second largest Medicaid and Medicare health plan in Hawaiʻi, serving families across the state.