December 3, 2012 Legislative Update
December 3, 2012
Your Monday Morning Update:
I know it appears that I’ve been quite the “slacker” since you haven’t heard from me for the past couple of weeks. The truth is that I’ve had absolutely nothing to say (quite a rare thing, but let’s count our blessings since this is the season of Thanks!)
Before going any further, here are the answers to the questions that everyone has been asking:
- No
- No
- No
- No
Those questions are:
- Has the 1115 waiver been approved yet by the Federal Health and Human Services Agency?
- Did you learn anything new at the latest round of KanCare informational sessions held last week in Olathe?
- Is there a reasonable list of providers signed on to participate in each of the Managed Care Organizations (MCO)?
- Does the State have a backup plan if the waiver isn’t approved by January 1, 2013?
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) held an hour long conference call last week to hear Kansan’s views on KanCare. There was only time for 20 calls, but none of the callers voiced support for the Governor’s plan. Comments ranged from:
- “If it ain’t broke, why fix it?”
- Apprehension with the time frame
- Many providers (and hospitals) haven’t signed up with MCO’s so the networks are weak
- Clients have great relationships with their current case managers and are concerned with losing these relationships and services once the MCO takes over
- Many case managers have moved on to other jobs and case management companies have gone out of business. What happens to clients if KanCare isn’t approved?
Regardless, the State said that things are moving along “famously” and Federal officials from CMS say they hope to act soon on the waiver request. Remember that “acting” doesn’t necessarily mean “agreeing”.
With Jan. 1st less than a month away, a decision would be appreciated!
On another note, pull out your calendar and circle Dec. 11th. The next End the Wait meeting (presented by the Disability Rights Center) will be held at Johnson County Developmental Supports from 6:30 – 8 p.m. With close to 900 folks from Johnson County on the statewide waiting list and a slew of new legislators to educate, this is a great opportunity to get together to talk strategy. A call in number will be available (I’ll send that later.)
Warm regards,
Lurena Mead
JCDS Community Relations Manager
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