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The recently released TennCare block grant proposal has prompted concerned responses from Tennessee residents, who were given the opportunity to provide feedback last month. If the proposal is approved, Tennessee will become the first state to receive Medicaid funding in a lump sum. Lawmakers are responding to citizens’ comments by making changes to the proposal as well as including clarification on some aspects.
Groups concerned with the proposal include senior citizens, physicians, disability groups, charitable clinics, and others, who worry the proposed block grant may limit Medicaid care options and services for beneficiaries. TennCare Director Gabe Roberts assures Tennessee residents that the purpose of the block grant is to improve the efficiency of the program and make it stronger rather than cut Medicaid services or eligibility. If TennCare enrollment expands beyond the original calculation, the federal government would increase the block grant funding.
Once changes are made, the proposal will be filed with the federal government this month. Upon federal approval, Tennessee state lawmakers will vote on a final product.
Read the full article from News Channel 9 out of Chattanooga below.
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