The North Carolina General Assembly wrapped up its regular short session in late June after a quick seven weeks. Short sessions focus on adjustments to the budget and passing bills that were still under consideration for both chambers the previous year. This year’s state budget (SB 99 State Budget Adjustments) comes in at $23.9 billion….
Update on changes proposed for Medicaid
What is “managed care” and how is NC already managing the care of people receiving Medicaid? The federal government’s Medicaid program allows states to use health maintenance organization (HMO) managed-care models in the design of its Medicaid programs. At its most basic, a health maintenance organization, such as an insurance company or a provider-led health…
NC DHHS Releases Plan for Medicaid Reform
The NC Department of Health and Human Services has issued a proposed design for Medicaid managed care in North Carolina. The proposal gives individuals on Medicaid, families, caregivers, providers, and other stakeholders the opportunity to share feedback before DHHS submits a revised waiver to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in the fall….
Ask NC Legislators Not to Cut Services
Last week, the House passed its version of the two-year budget bill, Senate Bill 257. Thank you to all the advocates for telling your stories. The House version of the budget includes 500 Innovations waiver slots, restores more of the funds for services for those waiting for help through Local Management Entities, and raises the…
Public Policy Update
This article was contributed by Jennifer Mahan, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy. Federal News American Health Care Act (AHCA) Update Thank you for calling your US House of Representatives member regarding cuts to Medicaid in the AHCA and the importance of health-care coverage for autism. Your direct advocacy matters! The US House was not…
Governor Proposes New Funding to Assist Autism Community
Today Governor Pat McCrory announced new initiatives that will be included in his proposed 2016 budget to be presented to the legislature before this year’s short session. The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) and other partners have worked with the governor’s office and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to include these…
FAQs related to SB 676: Autism Health Insurance Coverage
Background: After six years of working to pass coverage of autism treatments under health insurance through both chambers of the North Carolina General Assembly, the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) decided to take a new approach to the problem: ASNC came together with other North Carolina advocacy groups, professionals, clinicians, and insurers to work…
A Closer Look at the NC House Budget
This article was contributed by Jennifer Mahan, ASNC Director of Advocacy and Public Policy. The NC House passed HB97, its version of the two-year budget, on May 22. The House budget would increase spending by $1.3 billion (6.3 percent) to address funding needs in Medicaid, education, and other services. The bill includes funds for increased…