STATEHOUSE (Jan. 29, 2021) – State Sen. Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores) recently filed a bill that would allow easier access to out-of-state children's hospitals for Hoosier children covered by Medicaid.
Senate Bill 322 would create a reimbursement for inpatient and outpatient Medicaid services for children who receive care in a hospital in a state bordering Indiana. This would allow Hoosier children covered by Medicaid to receive treatment in children's hospitals that are closer to them, but happen to be across state borders.
The reimbursement rate would be set to equal the current federal Medicare reimbursement rate for a service if the rate is specified; or 130% of the Medicaid reimbursement rate if such a rate is not specified.
"Every family should have convenient access to health care for their children," Bohacek said. "Allowing Hoosier children covered by Medicaid to receive care in a hospital close to them, rather than requiring them to travel long distances within Indiana, is a simple way to make it easier for families to get their kids the care they need."
SB 322 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Health and Provider Services.
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For high-resolution photos of Bohacek, click here.
