Plan focuses on better health outcomes, personal responsibility and sustainability
On June 22, 2016, Gov. Matt Bevin introduced the new plan for the future of Kentucky’s Medicaid program in the form of a 1115 Waiver. Through this program entitled Kentucky HEALTH (Helping to Engage and Achieve Long Term Health), the Governor is seeking to empower individuals to improve their health and well-being while ensuring Medicaid’s long-term fiscal sustainability.
Some of the concepts introduced included:
- $1-$15 Premiums, no co-pays
- Benefits program allowing enrollees to accrue points for community service and self-learning activities
- Dental and vision not covered, but can be added through benefits points accrued
- Modeled after state employee insurance plan
Governor Bevin emphasized that the proposed plan focuses on engaging beneficiaries in their own health to ultimately achieve cost savings. In addition, a main intention is to move all “able bodied citizens” to commercial plans with requirements beginning after the first year. A wrap-around would be in place to cover expenses not covered under employer based commercial plans.
This program is open for a 30 day comment period beginning today and will be reassembled after the closing of the comment period to be submitted to CMS for approval.
The full proposed program, overview, FAQ’s and press conference can be found at: http://chfs.ky.gov/dms/kh.