February 17, 2015

Contact:

Medicaid Reform Proponents Co-sign Letter Urging Action1,047 Organizations Call For Medicaid Conversation; Reform And Expansion In 2015JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. The list of organizations advocating for Medicaid reform and expansion in 2015 has increased to 1,047, more than doubling since Januarys opening day of the Missouri General Assembly. On Jan. 8, 519 organizations petitioned lawmakers to build on the work of the two previous sessions to debate, and ultimately adopt, a Missouri Plan for Medicaid during this years legislative session. A Medicaid reform and expansion plan is possible this session, said Michelle Trupiano, director of the Missouri Medicaid Coalition. Missourians want a Medicaid program that works for the future of the state and expands access to health care services for those caught in the coverage gap.The coalition delivering the letter to lawmakers draws from a diverse set of organizations. In addition to health care providers and health systems, the list includes business groups, veterans advocates, grassroots groups, disease awareness organizations, religious groups and charities. Lawmakers have a chance to reshape the states Medicaid system this year, Trupiano said. The cost of doing nothing is high. 300,000 Missourians are in the coverage gap and are desperate for health care. Half of our neighboring states have already adopted programs and are beginning to see the benefit through reduced cost-shifting and better access to primary care services. Moreover, without action, Missouri taxpayers will continue to subsidize other states efforts while receiving no benefit locally.The letter encourages lawmakers to, move forward this session with a plan that works for our state adding, that a Missouri-specific solution will ensure that our Medicaid program creates value for Missourians and reflects Missouri values.If we had a chance to both improve the program, and the lives of hundreds of thousands hard-working Missourians, why wouldnt we, Trupiano added.

###