By: Health Insurance
Submitted: 2009-10-21 15:06:27 | Word Count: 531
Earlier this year, Assembly Democrats expanded BadgerCare Plus to include low-income adults without dependents. At the time, we knew the need for basic health care assistance was great, but we couldn’t predict the tremendous popularity of the program.
In the past three months, the state has received 500 to 600 applications each day and thousands of Wisconsinites have gotten medical care they desperately need.
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But, with the state facing a $6.6 billion shortfall, we designed the BadgerCare plus Core Plan to be budget neutral. That means a set amount of money can be spent on the program. This also means the number of people receiving the benefit is limited to about 54,000.
With more than 60,000 applications already filed, the Department of Health Services suspended enrollment Oct 9. At the same time, DHS created a waiting list for the Core Plan.
These actions do not apply to the BadgerCare plan for children, which will continue with no waitlists or changes.
Gov. Jim Doyle has directed DHS to design a low-premium health care plan to give those on the waiting list an option to buy minimal coverage. Details will be shared in the coming months.
With many of our friends and neighbors still struggling in this economy, I believe it is critical for the state to do what it can to help provide for essential needs. I look forward to reviewing the developing plan to provide low-cost health care insurance, and will continue to look for ways for the state to offer affordable health care coverage options for Wisconsin families in need.
But I want you to know that Assembly Democrats have already taken many important steps to expand health care access and lower health care costs for Wisconsin workers, businesses and families.
Earlier this year, I helped to pass measures that require health insurance companies to cover autism treatment and cochlear implants for children. We will help improve the lives of Wisconsin children and save taxpayers more than $2 million per year.
I co-authored a plan with Rep. Jennifer Shilling to expand access to free or low-cost dental care by allowing dentists to volunteer their services. And we’ve moved forward on legislation that reforms pre-existing condition clauses in health insurance policies that are often used to deny medical coverage.
While the folks in Washington, D.C., debate the merits and details of comprehensive health insurance reform and while we work to offer low-cost options for childless adults waiting to apply for the BadgerCare plus Core Plan, the Wisconsin Legislature is advancing common-sense, responsible measures that will directly benefit Wisconsin workers, businesses and families.
