JACKSON, Miss.–Without some financial help, some Delta hospitals will soon have to change the way they serve you, or close altogether. Mississippi’s new Speaker of the House said Tuesday, just after his appointment by the body, that he intends to see the state legislature tackle health care as one of its priorities.
“”We did get a jump start this fall when Gov. Reeves and his policy team found a way to enhance the reimbursement model for our ailing hospitals. It was a much-needed boost at a critical time,” said Rep. Jason White, of West in Holmes County. That plan does not expand the eligibility parameters or who can be on Medicaid in Mississippi, and all of the plan has yet to be approved by the feds.
While White did not specifically utter the words “Medicaid expansion”, his indication was that the House may consider it, despite the governor’s expected opposition.
Reeves has inaccurately referred to Medicaid expansion as “expanding welfare”. White pointed out that plans would be considered to help working Mississippians who cannot afford good health coverage.
“”I’m simply asking for open minds from all of you [the House], from our friends in the Senate, the executive branch, the Mississippi business community and most importantly from every segment of our health care industry,” said White. “It’ll take everyone to explore and examine potential solutions for our working folks who need health insurance.”
White said such a solution should also include ways to ensure hospitals are paid.
White also said the state’s spending must be brought under control, that he wants to revamp the way schools are funded and that he wants to make sure Mississippi is able to handle new industries that could bring jobs by ensuring the people of Mississippi are able to work in the areas where potential employers need them.
The legislative session is expected to last through early May.
