To the editor:
Iowans with all different kinds of disabilities, their families, caregivers and allies have been speaking out about making changes to Medicaid since it was privatized more than five years ago.
The U.S. Department of Justice report on Glenwood and Woodward released in December 2021 gives additional proof of Iowa’s institutional bias — segregation — which is caused by a lack of investment in Home and Community Based Services (HCBS).
My question to all Iowa elected officials and legislators is this: Why does legislation written about improvements to Medicaid die, which means there is no discussion or room for public comment?
This year, there are three bills:
- Senate File 2065 – An Act relating to claims incorrectly denied or underpaid by Medicaid managed care organizations
- Senate File 2066 – An Act relating to Medicaid program improvements
- Senate File 2067 – An Act relating to the reimbursement of providers under the Medicaid program
It’s time to figuratively take our heads out of the sand with Medicaid issues and at least make room to have public discourse. Contact your state senator today to ask when SF 2065, SF 2066 and SF 2067 subcommittee meetings will be scheduled.
Jenn Wolff of #UpgradeMedicaid
Waverly
