September 26, 2013

Medicaid Expansion will be Good for our Community

I’m sure you’ve read about Medicaid expansion - a program that extends health coverage to all adults with income above certain poverty levels.

Federal dollars will cover Ohio’s expansion costs for the first three years. After that, Ohio is responsible for no more than 10 percent of the cost and can stop the program.

Expanding Medicaid has been debated, but it’s no longer a question of debating facts. Now, it’s time to act.

This is important because the cost of health care to those in need is borne by employers and taxpayers, as well as health care providers who care for all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. 

Insured People Are Healthier

For the new health care model to work, everyone must participate. It’s a fact that insured people are healthier than uninsured people. They’re happier at home, more productive at work and better contributors to the community.

Expanding Medicaid is not about benefitting a few people – it’s good for everyone.

• Good for individuals. More people with chronic conditions can be identified and treated to improve their health – particularly those with lower incomes or previously uninsured.
• Good for our communities. This reduces the cost of local programs funding care for the uninsured and can substantially reduce historic disparities in minorities’ access to health care.
• Good for businesses. Private insurance costs may actually be lower because additional premiums may not be needed to cover costs of the uninsured. Expanding Medicaid can make Ohio more attractive to businesses that seek healthy workers.

We believe Medicaid expansion is good for hospitals, too. It will help relieve the pressure on high-cost emergency departments where many uninsured visit for care. TriHealth supports the expansion of Medicaid coverage in Ohio.