AHRQ Study: Medicaid Expansion Did Not Lead to Major Job Changes in 2014

Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act did not lead to major labor market changes during the first 15 months of the law’s enactment, according to a new AHRQ study. Based on data from the Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey, an interview of approximately 60,000 households monthly, the study assessed the impact of the expansion of Medicaid coverage on low-wage workers by analyzing job loss, job switching and full- versus part-time status. The study found that nationwide, job losses would be no greater than 2.2 percent, an increase in job switching no greater than 1.2 percent, and an increase in the likelihood of switching from full-time to part-time employment no greater than 1.6 percent. “Medicaid Expansion Did Not Result in Significant Employment Changes or Job Reductions in 2014” and abstract were published in the January issue of Health Affairs.