Expanding Medicaid in Alabama would double hospitals' Medicaid revenue shortfalls, the equivalent of about 5,160 hospital jobs.
Alabama began removing ineligible Medicaid enrollees recently after the federal COVID-19 public health emergency ended earlier this year.
In addition to a shortage of health care providers, Alabama’s hospitals are struggling on the business side due to the convoluted structure of insurance.
Those on both sides of the Medicaid expansion debate want Alabamians to have access to high quality and affordable healthcare. Where they differ is whether the government or the free market is best suited to provide it.
Some groups have their sights set on Alabama to pass Medicaid expansion in the near future.
A new report commissioned by the Alabama Hospital Association (AHA) suggests that profit margins for Alabama hospitals were down nearly 80% from pre-pandemic levels in 2022. Now, the AHA is seeking American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds from the state.
The Biden administration should end a COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) provision due to it leading to increased Medicaid enrollment and “costing states hundreds of millions of dollars,” according to a letter sent to President Joe Biden by Gov. Kay Ivey and 24 other Governors on Monday.
On its face, it is understandable why Medicaid expansion is tempting for some lawmakers. The federal government currently pays a 90% match rate for states that elect to expand coverage.
The Alabama Medicaid Agency (AMA) has removed its requirement for patients with hepatitis C to be drug and alcohol free before receiving treatment.
Health care continues to be a concern for state policymakers as the 2023 legislative session approaches.