We're nearing the six-month mark since North Carolina opened up enrollment to its expanded Medicaid program . Since December, 448,242 North Carolinians have been added to the rolls for full coverage, the state Department of Health and Human Services tells Axios. Why it matters: The expansion meant that another 600,000 residents — nearly 6% of the state's population — became eligible for coverage they previously might not have been able to afford, from maternity care to prescription drugs. Context: Gov. Roy Cooper has prioritized Medicaid expansion since he took office in 2017. Republicans had long been wary of expanding Medicaid benefits, initially citing financial concerns, the News & Observer reported . Between the lines: Medicaid signups are increasing in North Carolina's rural counties, including Edgecombe, Robeson, Swain and Graham, according to the state's Medicaid expansion dashboard . Zoom out: Medicaid covers most health care services at little or no cost to patients, from emergency services to preventative care. What's next: State health officials are working to engage with communities to get residents in need to sign up for Medicaid through town halls, distributing bilingual material, and other outreach, Ludlam says. What they're saying: "North Carolina serves as an example to other states who have yet to expand Medicaid health care coverage, because Medicaid expansion can and will save lives," U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a recent statement . Axios Charlotte . Support local journalism by becoming a member.
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