New report recommends $1 billion in annual savings with overhaul of Medicaid in Missouri [View all]

JEFFERSON CITY • Missouri could save as much as $1 billion annually within the next four years by undertaking an ambitious and potentially controversial overhaul of services and rates provided through the state’s Medicaid health insurance program for the poor, a new study shows.

A 116-page report compiled by a consulting company for $2.7 million says the state could alter reimbursement rates for hospitals, doctors and nursing homes, shift more people to home-care services and better manage prescription drug costs as a way to rein in rising costs.

The study does not recommend tightening eligibility rules, although lawmakers are separately considering a plan to require able-bodied recipients to work in order to receive coverage.

“Without significant changes, Medicaid spending may comprise 26 percent to 30 percent of state general revenues by 2023. To bring growth of Medicaid spending in line with the level of economic growth of the state while preserving access for participants and avoid reducing eligibility or coverage, significant savings would be necessary,” the report says.

Read more: https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/new-report-recommends-billion-in-annual-savings-with-overhaul-of/article_447de4bb-3d9c-5706-bb77-81b02282668a.html