Here are five things to know.
1. CMS released policy guidance Thursday for states to test programs that require “able-bodied, working-age adults” to work or take part in other community engagement activities, such as volunteering or skills training, to be eligible to receive Medicaid benefits. The rules would not apply to the elderly, children, pregnant women or disabled individuals. CMS Administrator Seema Verma said there would also have to be “reasonable modifications” for people with substance addictions, according to Reuters.
2. Administration officials said the policy guidance aims to help states design projects that promote Medicaid objectives as well as improved physical and mental health.
“Medicaid needs to be more flexible so that states can best address the needs of this population. Our fundamental goal is to make a positive and lasting difference in the health and wellness of our beneficiaries, and today’s announcement is a step in that direction,” Ms. Verma said in a statement Thursday.
3. However, critics contend the rules could increase the number of uninsured Americans, according to Bloomberg.
4. CMS said so far it has received project proposals with employment and community engagement initiatives from 10 states — Arizona, Arkansas, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Utah and Wisconsin. According to The Hill, South Dakota will also seek to impose Medicaid work requirements.
5. Healthcare stakeholders expect opponents to file lawsuits challenging the requirements, Bloomberg reported.
More articles on leadership:
6 things to know about CEO turnover in 2017
12 takeaways from the 2018 JP Morgan Healthcare Conference — while the destination is uncertain, the direction is clear
In contrast with Trump administration, Azar backs mandatory bundled payments
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
