CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- For the last three years, people who have health coverage through Medicaid have been automatically re-enrolled each year.

But now the system is going back to how it was before the COVID-19 pandemic, which means people will need to reapply for coverage annually.

Starting April 1 and over the course of the next year, everyone's Medicaid coverage will run out and they'll need to re-enroll in order to keep it.

But those who initially enrolled during the pandemic haven't had to go through that process yet.

Pediatrician Dr. Paige Perriello says she's worried people will accidentally lose their coverage.

She says people need to make sure their information in the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services system is up-to-date. 

"The most important thing of all is to get that information updated, and realize that you don't need to lose your coverage, but you may lose your coverage if you don't reapply," she said.

Updating contact information in the system means people will be notified when they need to reapply/ To do that, call (855) 242-8282 or click here.

Perriello also says anyone who is not currently enrolled in Medicaid but who thinks they may be eligible should call their local Department of Social Services office to get started.