Big Sky Times

The Montana Healthcare Foundation has released three new reports examining the impact of Medicaid expansion in the state. These findings indicate that the Health and Economic Livelihood Partnership (HELP) Act, known as "Medicaid expansion," has improved access to healthcare, enhanced health outcomes, and controlled costs.

According to the "2025 Medicaid in Montana" report, Medicaid expansion has significantly influenced rural healthcare systems. Reimbursements have enabled rural providers to introduce and enhance specialty services such as general surgery, orthopedic surgery, and mental health treatment. A survey of 27 critical access hospitals in Montana revealed that 93% had added or expanded specialty services since 2016.

Dr. Aaron Wernham, CEO of the Montana Healthcare Foundation, noted that these services benefit entire communities beyond just Medicaid enrollees. He stated that Medicaid expansion helps rural hospitals support essential but often financially challenging services like obstetrics and behavioral health.

The reports include an annual review titled “Medicaid in Montana,” an updated economic analysis by Manatt Health, and an actuarial study on potential insurance rate changes if Medicaid expansion ends in 2025.

Key findings from these analyses highlight consistent state spending on Medicaid at about 13% of Montana’s general fund since the HELP Act's inception in 2016. The program also improves access to preventive care, reducing emergency room visits and shifting costs towards outpatient services.

Medicaid expansion aids the Indian Health Service by providing reimbursement for non-emergency care without cost to Montana. This assistance led to a 124% increase in referrals for unavailable specialty services between 2015 and 2023.

An economic analysis by Bryce Ward of ABMJ Consulting shows that Medicaid expansion generates between 5,600 to 8,000 jobs annually while contributing $350 million to $560 million in personal income across Montana’s economy. The savings and increased revenues from this initiative offset its costs entirely.

Most adult beneficiaries are employed or engaged with caregiving responsibilities or disabilities; approximately 72% are part of the labor force or attending school. Notably, occupations with high enrollment rates include personal care aides (39%), cooks (32%), childcare workers (25%), and construction laborers (20%).

An actuarial study by Wakely Consulting Group suggests significant consequences if Medicaid expansion sunsets in 2025: up to 74,000 individuals could lose coverage leading to a rise in uninsured rates; Affordable Care Act premiums might increase by up to eight percent due primarily due primarily influx former enrollees into individual markets post-expansion expiration date looming legislative session next year crucial reauthorization discussions future program continuation remain pending final decisions lawmakers make regarding matter affecting thousands Montanans reliant upon existing framework ongoing medical support needs address adequately promptly effectively time-sensitive issue stakeholders concerned alike must consider implications thoroughly before proceeding further policy adjustments modifications necessary ensure sustainable viable solutions implemented timely manner serve best interests citizens involved ultimately benefiting society whole overall welfare prosperity 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