AHA queries Sebelius on ways to expand Medicaid

The American Hospital Association yesterday asked U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius a series of questions regarding the expansion of Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The questions appear to represent hospitals finding a path toward handling Medicaid populations in their respective states in 2014 and beyond--as well as assist them in lobbying efforts on the state level. Among the questions are whether Medicaid eligibility expansion may be phased in, whether those with incomes within Medicaid eligibility may purchase subsidized coverage through the state health insurance exchanges, and whether 1115 waivers could be used to expand Medicaid participation. Letter (.pdf)