Medicaid Plan Deadline Nears as Respiratory Illnesses Continue After Carnival
New Orleans, LA – March 10, 2026 – Medicaid members face an April 1 plan change as doctors continue reporting elevated flu, COVID-19 and RSV cases citywide.
New Orleans residents enrolled in Medicaid have less than a month to prepare for a major managed care change, as local doctors continue to report elevated levels of respiratory illness following Carnival gatherings.
Medicaid Coverage Shift Set for April 1
The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed that UnitedHealthcare will no longer participate in the state’s Medicaid managed care program beginning April 1, 2026. Current members enrolled in UnitedHealthcare must select a new Healthy Louisiana plan before that date to avoid an automatic reassignment.
State enrollment materials advise members to review available plans, provider networks and covered services through the Healthy Louisiana website. Coverage under UnitedHealthcare continues through March 31, 2026.
The transition affects Medicaid recipients across the region, including many families in Orleans Parish who rely on managed care plans for primary care, specialty visits and prescriptions.
Doctors Report Ongoing Respiratory Virus Activity
At the same time, New Orleans-area physicians told WDSU that clinics are still seeing an uptick in patients with fever, cough, congestion and sore throat in the weeks after Mardi Gras.
Clinicians cited multiple respiratory viruses circulating simultaneously, including influenza, COVID-19 and RSV. Providers noted that crowded events during Carnival season can contribute to increased spread of common respiratory infections.
Doctors emphasized that older adults and people with chronic medical conditions may face higher risks of complications and encouraged those with concerning or worsening symptoms to seek medical evaluation.
SNAP Purchase Rules Change at Local Stores
Separately, WWL-TV reported that new SNAP purchasing restrictions are now in effect in Louisiana, limiting the use of benefits for items such as candy, soft drinks and certain energy drinks. The change applies to SNAP transactions at retailers in New Orleans and statewide.
State officials have described the shift as part of an effort to align benefits with federal nutrition guidelines. Some community advocates have raised concerns about how the changes may affect household food budgets.
What Residents Should Know
Medicaid members currently enrolled in UnitedHealthcare have until March 31, 2026 to select a new Healthy Louisiana plan. Enrollment resources are available through the state’s official website.
Respiratory viruses remain active locally. Public health guidance continues to encourage staying home when sick and following clinician recommendations for testing and care.
SNAP participants can review updated eligibility rules with the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services or at participating retailers.
If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.
