School superintendents are making a difference in the healthcare debate on Capitol Hill, as reported by the Washington Post and Politico last week. MREA encourages school leaders to continue to connect with the Minnesota Congressional Delegation to share the impact of the .
The Senate is expected to vote the week of July 17.
Minnesota stands to lose $2 billion in Medicaid funding by 2021 that would impact schools and children in need across the state, if the Senate’s health care reform takes effect. Minnesota schools received $53 million in federal Medicaid funding in FY 2015, which was matched with $53 million in state funds.
These help provide services described in a child’s special education plan under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This includes services such as occupational and physical therapy, nursing, mental health, and aides in the classroom. Medicaid also covers health services for eligible children through the Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment Services (EPSDT).
School districts directly access these funds through third-party billing for therapeutic services, most often through SPED coops. Schools also indirectly access these fund through county collaboratives.
Rural children will be most affected by the proposed cuts to Medicaid. About 38 percent of Minnesota’s rural children are enrolled in Medicaid/CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), according to a new report. This is an increase from 28 percent in 2008. There currently are 10 percent more children enrolled in Minnesota’s rural areas compared to metropolitan areas. Learn more and take action.
Download a sample message to send to the Minnesota Congressional Delegation.
View chart comparing ObamaCare with the 2017 plans from the House and Senate and more information.