(AP) – A new study shows the number of uninsured children in the U.S. has dropped by 1 million in the past three years even as the number living in poverty has risen.

The report by Georgetown University looks at new data from the Census Bureau. It said the number of uninsured children dropped from 6.9 million in 2008 to 5.9 million in 2010.

The change comes as many states have expanded eligibility and simplified access to the children’s Medicaid program funded by federal and state agencies.

Experts warn the gains are fragile and could be reversed if state or federal support erodes.

Minnesota and Kansas saw an increase in the number of uninsured children. Florida made the most progress, dropping from 667,758 to 506,934 during that time period.