Connecticut Senate Bill SB00300

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/19
• Refer: 1/23/19

Caption

An Act Concerning A Medicaid Recipient's Right To Select A Caregiver.

Impact

The bill's passage would likely lead to a more personalized care experience for Medicaid recipients, improving their overall satisfaction with the services provided. By enabling recipients to select caregivers who meet specific needs, the legislation aims to enhance the quality of care. Additionally, this could foster better relationships between caregivers and patients, as individuals may feel more comfortable with those they choose for their care. As a result, this could improve health outcomes for affected individuals.

Summary

SB00300, introduced by Senator Moore, seeks to enhance the rights of Medicaid recipients by allowing them to select their own caregivers. This legislation aims to amend Title 17b of the general statutes to empower individuals receiving Medicaid benefits or their authorized representatives with the ability to choose a qualified caregiver, provided the care needed is deemed medically necessary. This proposed change represents a significant shift towards patient-centered care within the Medicaid system.

Contention

While SB00300 provides positive advancements for patient choice, there may be concerns regarding the implications of allowing recipients to select caregivers. Questions may arise regarding the criteria for 'qualified caregivers,' specifically how this standard is defined and monitored. Furthermore, stakeholders may debate the potential impact on Medicaid costs and whether such a provision could lead to increased fraud or abuse in the system. These discussions could highlight tensions between promoting patient autonomy and ensuring the integrity of the Medicaid program.