Illinois programs that provide healthcare to undocumented and some documented immigrant residents will be affected by changes that could result in many thousands of individuals losing their health insurance coverage, Alex Degman, WBEZ Chicago, reported.

On March 8, Illinois announced a change in the eligibility requirements for the Healthcare Benefits for Immigrant Adults and Seniors programs. In the coming year, residents who have been documented for fewer than five years will no longer be eligible for coverage, Degman reported.

The state’s Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) says annual redeterminations will begin on April 1, according to HFS spokesperson Jamie Munks.

“The redetermination process ensures that those who are enrolled remain eligible for coverage,” HFS spokesperson Jamie Munks said in an email to WBEZ Chicago. “If an individual loses coverage through the redetermination process, it is because they no longer meet eligibility requirements, or they are required to respond or submit additional information to prove their continued eligibility, but they do not do so.”

Over 6,000 people will lose their access to insurance as of May 1. This includes those who have had a green card for fewer than five years and are not yet eligible for federal benefits According to an HFS estimate.

The department stresses that uninsured individuals on May 1 will receive assistance with the transition, as said in HFS statement.

“HFS’ goal is to provide robust assistance during this process that meets the needs of affected customers,” HFS said in a statement. “The Department is working closely with [the Illinois Department of Insurance] to make sure Get Covered Illinois resources are deployed to support individuals seeking coverage.”