An Illinois Task Force, assigned to finding solutions to the state’s Medicaid problems, may be considering an alternative approach to helping local hospitals.  And---local medical leaders believe it could speed up reimbursement of past monies due.

The Illinois Hospital Association is proposing a co-pay agreement, by all emergency department users, to help cover costs.  Could it be considered a ‘user fee ?”

At Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka, interim-CEO Michael Stenger tells WGFA News IMH alone, is due $1.3 million in past due Medicaid payments.  That obviously creates cash-flow problems and leaves future projects in limbo.

Stenger says the lack of Medicaid payments is unprecedented in Illinois.  He’s hopeful lawmakers will see the dire-need to kick-start a move to consider a hospital association suggestion that will still provide for those patients eligible for help……….

                                                          (deserving people)   :54                #  31

Stenger sat down with WGFA News to explain a cost-saving Medicaid alternative that could save $810 million to $1.46 billion dollars …….

                                                         (going forward)   3:                        #  32

It’s hoped such a coalition of network-affiliated hospital leaders suggestions will be considered seriously.

The state’s financial dilemma has so many Medicaid reimbursements on the back burner; reimbursements that are rightfully owed.  One would wonder why such ‘common sense” approach is ignored ……..

                                                        (straight-forward)    :27                 #  33

The Illinois Hospital Association presented testimony to the senate Appropriations Committee and the House Appropriation Human Services Committee expressing opposition to the Governor’s proposed $2.7 billion reduction in Medicaid spending and outlining its approach for a multi-year solution that will protect patient access to quality health care and keep the health delivery system strong.

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