The Montana Healthcare Foundation recently released its fourth annual Medicaid in Montana report on the state's Medicaid program and its impact on the state budget, economy, and health. Montana Medicaid provides health care coverage to nearly 300,000 Montanans including children, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and adults with low incomes. Effective January 1, 2016, the HELP Act expanded Medicaid to cover adults with incomes up to 133% of the federal poverty level ($19,391 for an inpidual in 2023).
This year's report highlights the role of Montana Medicaid in providing access to essential preventive services – including screening and treatment for mental health conditions and substance use disorders – following a significant decline in use of preventive care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report found that access to Medicaid coverage results in fewer visits to the emergency room for preventable conditions. Over time, health care costs also shift from more intensive emergency and inpatient care to outpatient services and pharmacy, suggesting improved health outcomes.
Additional findings about the impact of the Montana Medicaid program are available in the 2024 report and data book. Click here to read the full report.
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