An Illinois Task Force, assigned to finding solutions to the state’s Medicaid problems, may be considering an alternative approach to helping local hospitals. And---local medical leaders believe it could speed up reimbursement of past monies due.
The Illinois Hospital Association is proposing a co-pay agreement, by all emergency department users, to help cover costs. Could it be considered a ‘user fee ?”
At Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka, interim-CEO Michael Stenger tells WGFA News IMH alone, is due $1.3 million in past due Medicaid payments. That obviously creates cash-flow problems and leaves future projects in limbo.
Stenger says the lack of Medicaid payments is unprecedented in Illinois. He’s hopeful lawmakers will see the dire-need to kick-start a move to consider a hospital association suggestion that will still provide for those patients eligible for help……….
(deserving people) :54 # 31
Stenger sat down with WGFA News to explain a cost-saving Medicaid alternative that could save $810 million to $1.46 billion dollars …….
(going forward) 3: # 32
It’s hoped such a coalition of network-affiliated hospital leaders suggestions will be considered seriously.
The state’s financial dilemma has so many Medicaid reimbursements on the back burner; reimbursements that are rightfully owed. One would wonder why such ‘common sense” approach is ignored ……..
(straight-forward) :27 # 33
The Illinois Hospital Association presented testimony to the senate Appropriations Committee and the House Appropriation Human Services Committee expressing opposition to the Governor’s proposed $2.7 billion reduction in Medicaid spending and outlining its approach for a multi-year solution that will protect patient access to quality health care and keep the health delivery system strong.
“Your Illiana News Source” --- 94.1 FM, WGFA
