Provide continuous eligibility for certain children covered by CHIP and Medicaid
Impact
The introduction of continuous eligibility is expected to provide a number of advantages. Firstly, it aims to ensure consistent access to healthcare services during a critical period of early childhood development. By maintaining stable coverage, it can prevent gaps in care, thus improving health outcomes for children. The bill also anticipates a reduction in the need for emergency care and associated costs, as regular preventive care would help identify and address health concerns before they escalate, supporting children's overall readiness for school.
Summary
House Bill 850 aims to implement continuous eligibility for children under six years of age enrolled in the Healthy Montana Kids Plan. This legislative initiative is designed to ensure that children retain health coverage even amidst fluctuations in family income that could otherwise lead to disenrollment from the program. The bill mandates that the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) apply for necessary waivers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to facilitate this continuous eligibility until a child reaches six years of age.
Contention
While supporters view the bill as a necessary improvement in health coverage for vulnerable children, concerns may arise regarding the fiscal impact of increased appropriations to the DPHHS. The bill allocates significant funding, with nearly $8 million in the first year and over $14 million in the second year, raising questions about budget constraints and long-term sustainability. Critics might argue that while the intention to increase access to healthcare is commendable, the financial implications could lead to challenges for the state budget in future years.
Notable_points
HB 850 not only seeks to enhance health outcomes for children but also aims to reduce administrative burdens by minimizing the frequency of eligibility reevaluations. These measures could streamline processes within the DPHHS, making it easier to manage health insurance for children in the program. If approved, the implementation of continuous eligibility could set a precedent for future legislation focused on child health and welfare.
Requires Medicaid coverage for continuous glucose monitors and related supplies for individuals diagnosed with diabetes who meet certain coverage eligibility criteria.
Would provide children up to age three (3) with continuous coverage eligibility for RIte Track/RIte Care so that they are not at risk of losing coverage at the yearly redetermination due solely to administrative barriers.
Would provide children up to age three (3) with continuous coverage eligibility for RIte Track/RIte Care so that they are not at risk of losing coverage at the yearly redetermination due solely to administrative barriers.