December 3, 2009

New Mexico Human Services Department Medicaid Coverage Concept Paper Draft: 12/3/09

On December 3, 2009, the New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) issued its Medicaid Coverage Concept Paper, a detailed report presenting opportunities and strategies to combat the state's growing uninsured. The concept paper addresses the need for affordable insurance coverage in New Mexico. With an estimated 23% of New Mexicans without health insurance coverage, HSD highlights what can be done, what should be done, and when these actions should occur. HSD believes that New Mexico's Medicaid should be designed to affordable coverage, and be as efficient and cost-saving as possible.

To further address the problem of uninsured state citizens, HSD is seeking formal partnerships with State Coverage Insurance (SCI) and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Key concepts for the outlined coverage plan include a Medicaid Service Plan, available State Coverage Plan (SCP) that is above the mandatory level of Medicaid coverage, and benefit riders and other options. Furthermore, HSD introduces the concept of buy-in to the SCP for certain employer groups to facilitate coverage for working individuals and families.

New Mexico is working to combat the rising uninsured population in wake of the economic decline. There will be significant reductions in Medicaid provider payments, the member benefits, or eligibility levels to ensure the program maintains fiscal solvency. Additional research will be conducted to provide for more detailed, better outlined coverage options.