WASHINGTON: MEDICAID CUTS RESTORED; MORE CAN BE DONE


Washington

          HARRISBURG, July 29 – State Senator LeAnna M. Washington (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) said today that she is pleased that the $24.3 billion state budget restored half of the Medicaid shortfall, but is concerned that “many of the commonwealth’s most vulnerable citizens will face uncertain futures” if all of the Bush administration’s cuts are not restored.

          This week, the Department of Public Welfare notified adult Medical Assistance recipients about new limits for medical services and changes to co-payments for prescription drugs. 

          These changes will take effect August 29th.

          “I am deeply concerned about the impact of the loss of Medicaid funds to those most in need,” Washington said.  “I’m talking about survivors of domestic violence, women with disabilities, working women in low wage jobs, women in drug treatment and the elderly.”

          Washington added that these women are striving courageously to get back on their feet. 

          “I think we need to care more and do more for those facing challenging times in their lives,” she said.

          Some of the new service limits are on annual outpatient visits, inpatient medical rehabilitation hospital stays, inpatient psychiatric hospital services, psychiatric partial hospitalization services and psychiatric outpatient clinic services.  There will also be new co-payments for brand name prescription drugs and generic prescription drugs.

          The Department notes that the service limits do not apply to those under age 21 or pregnant, or for services covered by Medicare.  The co-payment does not apply for those under 18, pregnant, or in a nursing home.

           Washington noted that even though there is an “exception” process through the Department, too many will forgo this process because it is intimidating and overwhelming.

           Washington said she is sending a letter to local congressional leaders to see how they can work together to have these cuts made by the federal government restored.