On May 2, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized a rule expanding access to health care coverage for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients. Beginning November 1, 2024, DACA recipients will be eligible to enroll in a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace, or for coverage through a Basic Health Program (BHP).

The Association for Clinical Oncology (ASCO) applauds CMS for finalizing this rule as it will allow approximately 100,000 previously uninsured individuals the opportunity to obtain health care coverage. Extending coverage to these individuals will help ensure access to care for those with a cancer diagnosis, promote screening and preventative cancer services, and advance health equity. ASCO submitted comments to CMS supporting the proposed rule.

DACA recipients and other newly eligible individuals will qualify for a special enrollment period to select a health plan through the ACA marketplace during the 60 days following the rule’s November 1, effective date. This timing also corresponds with the 2025 Open Enrollment Period. Marketplace coverage will begin as early as December 1, 2024, for those who apply for coverage in November of 2024 and meet all other eligibility requirements. DACA recipients and others who are eligible for a BHP can apply for and receive coverage as early as November 1, 2024.

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