Medicaid reform is truly an urgent need
ELLISVILLE — Medicaid and Medicare are very different programs. Generally speaking, Medicare is designed to help with long-term care for the elderly, while Medicaid is a “needs-based” program which covers healthcare costs for the poor.
Unlike Medicare, which is available to everyone, Medicaid is subject to strict eligibility requirements. Nevertheless, one of the more expensive yearly budget items is the appropriation required to operate Mississippi’s Medicaid program, and its financial condition is expected to worsen in the near future.
With more than 36,000 new eligible enrollees, it is anticipated that the program’s expenses will increase by 16 percent in the upcoming year. In FY 2013, Medicaid will serve the healthcare needs of 655,774 Mississippians and demand an appropriation of at least $763 million.
Leader Call
Sen. Chris McDaniel
1/4/12
Magnolia Tribune
