The Interim Study Committee on Public Health, Behavioral Health and Human Services wrapped up its work last week at the Statehouse. The committee heard that the state is in negotiation with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services over the waiver contract regarding the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP). HIP hopes to implement a tobacco surcharge for members who do not stop smoking in their first year of enrollment in the plan. Details on how to do this are yet to be determined.
The committee also received an update on the Gateway to Work Program that was launched in 2015. This is a feature of HIP that helps connect HIP members to Indiana’s workforce training programs, work search resources and potential employers. Gateway to Work begins with an assessment of a person’s skills and abilities to identify what needs to be done to help the individual achieve employment goals.
Additionally, the committee approved a preliminary draft recommendation on diabetes (a copy of which was unavailable). The intent is to focus on screening, prevention, education and management for Hoosiers with diabetes. Because of the importance of this issue and its impact on the health of Hoosier employees, the Indiana Chamber will be weighing in on this matter during the upcoming legislative session.
Resource: Mike Ripley at (317) 264-6883 or email: mripley@indianachamber.com
