Payer Roundup—Ohio senator wants to see state roll out Medicaid work requirements

Ohio: Senator calls for stricter work rules for Medicaid coverage

Sen. Matt Huffman, R-Ohio, wants to impose stricter work requirements for those receiving Medicaid. Huffman believes that people in the state are actually leaving their jobs in order to claim the government-funded health insurance.

Proposed Senate Bill 25 would require Medicaid recipients between the ages of 18 to 65 to work at least 20 hours a week.

“There is a real disincentive for people to work if you are at a certain income category and you qualify (for Medicaid). The government is in effect competing with employers for these workers by providing these benefits,” Huffman said before a Senate committee. (The Columbus Dispatch)

Vermont: Healthcare coverage up 1%

The number of people enrolled in health insurance plans in Vermont increased 1% in the past year.

According to the Department of Vermont Health Access, the enrollment has increased to about 34,400. The increase is most likely attributed to a rise in the number of young adults, ages 20 to 34, in the state.

And for people who receive health subsidies, the average payment is down from $163 to $131 per month. (The Washington Times)

NC: State wants to reduce provider costs and pass savings to state employees

Officials in North Carolina are hoping to find additional healthcare funding for its state employees to cover the rising costs of health insurance.

The plan is to give the government control of how much a mental health or primary care provider charges for a visit.

Since healthcare costs vary, the new rule would most likely benefit independent therapists and primary care doctors, but it would also cut funds coming into large institutions. (Marketplace)