North Carolinians who rely on Medicaid may face major cuts to their healthcare coverage. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services stated that, beginning on Wednesday, all providers treating Medicaid patients will see at least a 3% reduction in pay. These reductions could affect service availability.
Families such as Karla Stamey’s are concerned. Stamey told WBTV about her brother Bryan, who has received Medicaid support for more than 20 years. The Life Enrichment Center in Cleveland County, where Bryan receives care, depends on Medicaid reimbursements for about 90% of its funding. Toni Camp, with the center for nearly 30 years, said that a loss of Medicaid providers could disrupt care for clients.
News From The States reported on Alessandra Fabrello, whose son receives Medicaid benefits. Fabrello said cutting provider rates limits access to needed services. These changes have raised concerns over a possible decrease in the number of Medicaid providers across North Carolina.
WUNC reported that state lawmakers have not reached an agreement on Medicaid funding. A standoff between the Senate, House of Representatives, and Governor Josh Stein began Monday last week over a bill that included Medicaid funding and money for a children’s hospital project. Without an agreement, the cuts will take effect immediately.
Comments from Dr. Wesley Wallace of UNC Chapel Hill, who warned about reduced compensation for providers, and OB/GYN Jenna Beckham, who said the cuts would significantly affect access to medical services.
