Heath and Human Services commissioner says he may soon propose reducing what the state pays health care providers to treat Medicaid patients.But doctors and nurses have long complained those payments are already too low.
Commissioner Stephen disclosed that provider cuts could be in the offing during testimony before a house legislative subcommittee
"Rates are an issue all across the board and I may be going to fiscal committee in the next few weeks to reduce certain rates because I need to balance the some of budget. And providers out there are going to be coming to you about rates and we'll work together -- but rates are going to be something you have to look at."
After the hearing Commissioner Stephen said the some of the money saved by the cuts could help launch pilot programs exploring increased home care -- a key part of the department's Medicaid reform proposal known as Granitecare. When asked about what payments he's like to cut and by how much, Stephen offered no detail.
"We're kind of reviewing these issues, but there's a significant growing deficit in our budget in the provider payment line and other deficits that we have to balance, and were going to balance them and obviously we're speaking to the Governor's office about these issues."
"I don't have knowledge of that."
That's Governor Lynch……He says he expects Stephen will talk to him about his plans. Lynch then reiterated a message he's been stressing for some time.
"As I've mentioned before, issues relating to Medicaid reform will not be part of the budget I'll submit on February 15th."
The governor declined to directly address the point that payment cuts being eyed by Stephen, would take effect this year -- not in the next budget……But whether such cuts come to pass is another matter entirely……. The complaint that existing reimbursement rates -- which average between 60 and 70 cents on the dollar -- are too low is a common one……..It was a recurrent theme at the Governor's Medicaid forum earlier this week…..And one well known to member of the fiscal committee…….Less well known, as it turns out, is Commssioner Stephen's interest in possible provider cuts…
"That's the first I've heard of it. I'll comment on it when it gets here. I have no comment today."
That's Fiscal Committee chairman Fred King……..And he's far from the only prominent lawmaker not to know about Stephen's plans…..Senate Majority Leader Bob Clegg has historically been one of the Commissioner's staunchest supporters.
"I've got to see what he's doing."
--You've heard nothing about this?
"I honestly don't know what he's talking about."
The Legislature's fiscal committee will reconvene next month.
