Washington State Gov. Chris Gregoire has suspended plans to limit Medicaid payments for emergency room visits deemed unnecessary until budget negotiations among state lawmakers come to a close, according to a Seattle Times report.
The provision, which would have gone into effect yesterday, was intended to cut Medicaid spending by the state. However, it was staunchly opposed by the American College of Emergency Physicians and other emergency physician groups, who argued the limits would put Medicaid patients at risk and shifted costs onto hospitals.
Lawmakers are currently reviewing a "less-drastic alternative," according to the report.
The provision, which would have gone into effect yesterday, was intended to cut Medicaid spending by the state. However, it was staunchly opposed by the American College of Emergency Physicians and other emergency physician groups, who argued the limits would put Medicaid patients at risk and shifted costs onto hospitals.
Lawmakers are currently reviewing a "less-drastic alternative," according to the report.
More Articles on Washington Medicaid:
Washington Medicaid Won't Reimburse for "Unnecessary" ER Visits
Washington State Judge Rules Against ER Limit for Medicaid Patients