Article Abstract:
Federal and state lawmakers cannot allow Medicaid spending increases to continue unchecked, but reining in the Medicaid budget involves making difficult choices concerning who should be the program's primary beneficiaries. Elderly, disabled and blind patients account for almost 70% of Medicaid spending, though they constitute only 27% of the program's beneficiaries. That leaves only 29% of Medicaid funds for poor, nonelderly patients.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
Some 60% of nursing home residents receive Medicaid assistance. From 1975 to 1993, the number of long-term care patients receiving Medicaid increased moderately, but spending on those patients skyrocketed. The aging population will make this problem worse. Though something must be done to contain Medicaid costs, it is important to remember that Medicaid recipients are not just the poor, but ordinary people.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
New York's Medicaid program was growing by 10% annually and Gov George Pataki wanted its budget curtailed by 16%. Legislators did not decrease Medicaid spending by 16% but did decrease it by a substantial amount. These budget reductions will be achieved through less service, additional managed care options and rate decreases. New York has a higher Medicaid budget than any other state and a generous program.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic: