Jackson County residents who’ve had Medicaid benefits terminated may have the option to reapply, and others currently receiving the service could be protected from termination if a settlement is approved. A lawsuit was filed in 2017, alleging NC Medicaid and county Departments of Social Services were engaging in illegal practices by ending or reducing medical coverage benefits without properly notifying the recipient. The irregularities were blamed on computer and human error. The incidents happened statewide and impacted every county, including Jackson. As a result, a settlement was reached on Oct. 14, but has yet to be approved pending a fairness hearing on Jan. 13. If the judge approves, the changes will become permanent.
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