Moran Introduces Bill to Improve Medicaid Care for Seriously Ill Children
Press Release
Congressman Jim Moran, Northern Virginia Democrat, this week introduced H.R. 4147, legislation to improve health care for seriously ill children by allowing states to bypass the years-long application process for the Children's Program of All-inclusive, Coordinated Care (ChiPACC).
"Nearly 30 percent of children with life-threatening illnesses qualify for Medicaid. This legislation makes it easier and quicker for states to provide the best possible care to its young people," said Rep. Moran. "Children are much more likely than adults to go in and out of terminal phases multiple times. ChiPACC addresses these differences and provides a comprehensive and coordinated care system for children suffering from serious illnesses. The program also addresses the special needs of the parents of seriously ill children."
Based on the highly effective, collaborative model of care developed by Children's Hospice International, ChiPACC provides each enrolled child an individualized treatment plan that includes and manages services from providers across the health care spectrum. ChiPACC creates a comprehensive care plan, combining hospice services, counseling and respite with presently-available Medicaid curative care and supportive services.
"There is nothing partisan about protecting and preserving the health of our children and I hope this legislation gains support from my colleagues," Moran continued. "Parents need and deserve help in managing their seriously ill child's complex care."
There are currently only five states who have completed the laborious application process and are now providing ChiPACC services as part of state Medicaid programs. The treatment to Medicaid-eligible children suffering from serious illnesses in the remaining 45 states results in inconsistent care. Shifting to ChiPACC services and therefore eliminating the Emergency Room as the primary care facility for this population will reduce the cost of Medicaid services while improving medical outcomes.
The five states currently offering ChiPACC services are Florida, Colorado, California, New York, and North Dakota. Illinois and New Jersey are in the midst of working through the waiver process.
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