Cliff Stearns: “Medicaid is a mounting expense and a source of frustration to beneficiaries, providers, and taxpayers. Our States need…”

“Medicaid is a mounting expense and a source of frustration to beneficiaries, providers, and taxpayers. Our States need long-term solutions, not short-term cash infusions. But there is good news. There are regulations in Medicaid, section 1115 waivers. These give States more flexibility to design and implement programs that work. One success story has the potential to save money and even more importantly instill choice into the program. Florida, Arkansas, and New Jersey have a demonstration project called the Cash and Counseling Program. It permits participants, with minimal assistance, to direct their own health care and manage the funds allocated for their needs. In Florida, it is entirely voluntary for frail elders, the developmentally disabled and physically disabled. The eligible are given their own personal cash allowance to spend on established health care purchases. This is resulting in choice, heightened personal responsibility, and potential cost savings. I commend Governor Jeb Bush for his success and only hope that Cash and Counseling is expanded across this Nation.”