Report Commissioned by State Legislature Says- BWH Bulletin - For and about the People of Brigham and Women's Hospital
Report Commissioned by State Legislature Says- BWH Bulletin - For and about the People of Brigham and Women's Hospital
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May 25, 2001
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In This Issue:
Employees’ Contributions Presented to the Tobin School
Farewell, First Family
Coming Summer 2001: BWH Bulletin Exclusively On-line
BWH Calendar
Report Commissioned by State Legislature Says
Menino Applauds Project RISE
New Outpatient Dialysis Unit Opens
Heart to Heart
HVMA Progress Note
News in 60 Seconds
The Boston Globe reported this week that a draft report commissioned by the State Legislature said that the Medicaid program is underpaying hospitals in Massachusetts by as much as $200 million at a time when hospitals continue to face ongoing financial challenges. The State program provides insurance to 900,000 poor and disabled people. The results of the study could impact current deliberations in the State Senate, which is examining ways to boost support for hospitals such as BWH. Earlier this year, the Governor’s office introduced a package to increase support by $250 million, combining increased Medicaid funding with free care pool reform. The House version of the budget totaled $150 million in relief and the Senate is now considering its budget proposal. According to published accounts, the draft Lewin Report estimates that Medicaid pays hospitals just 60 percent of costs associated with outpatient care and only 81 to 84 percent of costs for inpatient care. “This is not a surprise. At BWH we have long argued that the State should pay its fair share,” said BWH President Jeffrey Otten. “Hopefully, legislative leaders will recognize the importance of providing support for our mission.” Now is the time to demonstrate your individual support for hospitals by contacting the Massachusetts Hospital Association. The MHA has established a special toll-free number, 1-800-681-1688, as well as an email link at their website, www.mhalink.org, that will allow you to contact your State Senator in support of their Fair Payment/Shared Responsibility legislation.