Here’s what you should know.
1. The agency is facing a budgetary shortfall needing approximately $149 million. The sector is set to receive a $105 million one-year boost from London, United Kingdom-based BP through an oil spill settlement. However, the program would still need $44 million from the state’s general fund, raising its total budget to $764 million.
2. In addition, the state needs to decide whether to change from Medicaid to a managed care system.
3. The uncertainty surrounding healthcare is muddling Ms. Azar’s strategic plan development, she said.
4. Alabama’s Medicaid program consumes more from the state’s general fund than any other department.
5. The factors behind the $44 million increase include inflationary increases in nursing homes, pharmacy and Medicare Part B costs.
6. Alabama received a waiver for any possible changes, but it has to have a strategic plan in place by Sept. 30, 2017.
7. Ms. Azar urged the state to continue its transformation to a managed care system. Alabama legislators began changing the program in 2013.
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