Medicaid Changes Proposed

The Human Services Department held public hearings in mid-May on a series of proposed changes to the Medicaid program. The changes are part of an effort by the Richardson administration to cut approximately $150 million from the Medicaid program, in order to save the state's matching portion of over $40 million.

The proposed new regulations would make it easier for the state to deny Medicaid coverage for power wheelchairs, and limit the number of adult diapers, disposable gloves, and other medical supplies regardless of individual needs. Testimony by P&A and others challenged the wisdom and legality of such proposals.

Proposed changes to the regulations governing the Personal Care Option (PCO) also drew criticism from a large crowd of consumers, providers and others. Many people observed that the Department's proposals undermined the consumer-directed model, which allows the PCO consumer to control their own services but is utilized by only 2% of PCO recipients. The Department's proposal to utilize an independent agency to assess PCO eligibility and service needs based on a uniform assessment form was generally supported.

The Disability Coalition, a joint project of P&A and the DD Planning Council, provided information to the disability community about the proposals and assisted many consumers and family members in attending the hearing in order to provide testimony.

In addition to these regulatory changes, which are expected to be finalized by July 1, the Department is planning to save additional funds by cutting the payment rates to all Medicaid providers, and by charging many Medicaid recipients "co-pays" for their services.

++++++