According to the report, the state’s plan would limit ER visits to three per year for “non-emergency” conditions. The plan comes as the state attempts to close a $5 billion budget shortfall. State officials say the plan could save $72-$76 million over two years.
Despite the need to cut spending, critics say the list of non-emergency conditions includes illnesses that require immediate medical attention. Hypoglycemic coma and asthma attacks are not considered to be emergencies, according to the report.
Two-thirds of the 1.1 million Washington residents covered by Medicaid are children, and critics worry that the new rule could prevent parents from seeking needed treatment for their children. Hospitals worry that they will end up eating the cost of ER visits beyond the allowed three. The state has responded by saying it has few options considering the budget shortfall.
Read the Seattle Times report on the plan to cut Medicaid funding.
Read more on Medicaid:
–State Legislators oppose GOP Medicaid Change, Official Claims
–CMS Final Rule Increases Funding for Medicaid, CHIP e-Enrollment Systems
–Illinois Finance Authority to Funnel Unpaid Medicaid Claims to Investors
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