A comprehensive study of KanCare – the state's privatized Medicaid program – says while it has come close to meeting cost-cutting goals, it has burdened providers and failed to significantly improve care for the 400,000 low-income and disabled Kansans it covers. The study was conducted for several Kansas provider organizations by a consulting firm run by former Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt. Lead analyst Robin Arnold-Williams says turning Medicaid over to three managed care organizations reduced costs, in part, by shifting them to hospitals, doctors and other providers.
Those administrative burdens and a recent cut in Medicaid reimbursement rates ordered by Governor Sam Brownback are increasing concerns that more providers will start refusing to see KanCare patients.
From the KHI News ServiceJim McLean has details.