Gov, tribe clash over Medicaid proposal

Associated Press

Updated: Jun 26, 2012 11:32 AM

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Gov. Susana Martinez's administration and American Indian officials are at odds on a proposal to redesign Medicaid.

The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that both sides sparred Monday over how thoroughly the state consulted with New Mexico's 22 Indian tribes on possible changes.

One criticism of the proposal tribal officials raised is that the state would discontinue the payment of medical bills in the three months prior to an individual's enrollment in Medicaid, as is currently done.

Tribal officials also said the plan doesn't recognize how difficult it is to deliver care on rural reservations, pueblos or tribal lands.

But the Martinez administration says the program is unsustainable without changes, which is why it wants the federal government to give it extra flexibility in administering Medicaid.

___

Information from: The Santa Fe New Mexican

Copyright 2013 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Political Pulse

We welcome your thoughtful comments. Be the first to participate in the discussion. All comments will display your username and avatar.