The two senators have asked the federal government to stop or delay the Governor’s changes. They worry that making so many changes without proper planning threatens health care services for the 560,000 Iowans who depend on Medicaid.
“Governor Branstad’s is pushing to privatize Medicaid services faster and more completely than in any other state,” Wilhelm said prior to the event. “I’m concerned that people in our communities will be denied critical medical services and that local providers will not be adequately reimbursed for the medical care of Medicaid patients.”
Many Iowa health care leaders are concerned that the Branstad Administration’s goals are unrealistic and could threaten the health care of Iowans.
By January 1, 2016, the health care of more than a half million Iowans will be turned over to four managed care companies. Under the Branstad Administration’s proposed contracts, administrative costs will jump from 3 to 15 percent, reaching a new total of $600 million. At the same time, the overall cost to the State of Iowa is supposed to fall by $100 million a year.
“We all need to work together to make sure quality health care services remain available to local seniors, people with physical and mental disabilities, and mothers and children,” said Wilhelm.
This is worrisome if you have a relative on Medicaid. They were bad enough as is without this disruption. There are thousands of people on Medicaid here in Iowa and it will be very difficult if they come in and disrupt the process.