Hospital Association: fewer NH uninsured

An October report from the New Hampshire Hospital Association (NHHA) says that the number of uninsured patients seeking treatment is decreasing. 

“In fact, as of June 2015, emergency department visits among the uninsured are down 28%, inpatient visits among the uninsured are down 36%, and outpatient visits among the uninsured are down 23% compared to the prior year,” says a press release from the NHHA. 

The Association argues expanded Medicaid eligibility is the cause of fewer uninsured visits. 

New Hampshire’s expanded Medicaid program will expire at the end of 2016 unless the legislature votes to spend $12 million and renew the program. 

The NHHA argues this expense is worth it because the cost of treating uninsured patients is shifted to insurance premiums.  The NHHA calls this a “hidden tax” on insured patients. 

Opponents of Medicaid expansion argue that the program will increase state costs over time at the expense of other, worthier programs.

“Medicaid expansion primarily provides coverage to able-bodied, childless adults, people we should be encouraging to work, but it does so at the expense of other, needier groups,” said Americans for Prosperity-New Hampshire state director Greg Moore. “Continuing this program will create more reductions in services for our seniors, for children and for the disabled.”

Do you think New Hampshire should continue expanded Medicaid eligibility?  Comment below!