STATEHOUSE (April 12, 2021) – State Rep. Hal Slager's (R-Schererville) legislation to help Medicaid-covered Indiana children receive access to high quality pediatric care closer to home could soon be law.
According to Slager, out-of-state hospitals treating Hoosier children are currently receiving reimbursement through Indiana's Medicaid program at an amount much lower than an in-state hospital is getting for providing the same care. This is causing some Northwest Indiana children who rely on Medicaid to be turned away for in-patient and outpatient care and treatment at nearby children's hospitals, and they must now travel to Indianapolis to receive treatment.
Slager said House Enrolled Act 1305 would adjust the reimbursement disparities for out-of-state children's hospitals and ensure families are accepted closer to home for the care they need and are able to go to the nearest hospital for treatment, regardless if it is in a bordering state.
"For far too long, young Hoosiers and their families who are already facing medical challenges have been forced to endure added stress, and it's time the process is fixed," Slager said. "The emotional, physical and monetary tolls are overwhelming as they travel for treatment. With this legislation, which I hope will be signed into law in the coming days, we can really make a difference in the lives of struggling Hoosiers in our community who do not have easy access to medical care."
About 50% of Hoosier children use Medicaid because they do not have private insurance.
House Enrolled Act 1305 is now eligible to be signed into law by the governor. Visit iga.in.gov to learn more.
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State Rep. Hal Slager (R-Schererville) represents House District 15,
which includes portions of Lake County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
