Programs for addiction, mental health facing cuts

[Disir]

LINCOLN — Groups that treat people with addictions, mental health problems and developmental disabilities are bracing for state budget cuts they say could force them to reduce staffing and services for some of Nebraska's most vulnerable residents.


The cuts became final last week when lawmakers fell short of the votes needed to override Gov. Pete Ricketts' line-item budget vetoes.

Now, service providers are scrounging for places to cut in the face of rising costs and unpaid Medicaid claims from the state's new managed care system, Heritage Health. Some providers have said they're still waiting on claims the system should have paid three months ago.


Dubas, a former state senator, said she understands the budget predicament but argued that the cuts will ultimately cost the state more. Parents who don't get treatment for a drug addiction or mental health problem are more likely to lose custody of their children, putting additional strain on Nebraska's child welfare system, she said.

Additionally, Dubas said service cuts could lead more residents to seek treatment in emergency rooms at a far greater cost.
Programs for addiction, mental health facing cuts

It's like a domino effect. Not to mention the fact that not getting paid on time does not help.

 

[Eaglewings]

LINCOLN — Groups that treat people with addictions, mental health problems and developmental disabilities are bracing for state budget cuts they say could force them to reduce staffing and services for some of Nebraska's most vulnerable residents.


The cuts became final last week when lawmakers fell short of the votes needed to override Gov. Pete Ricketts' line-item budget vetoes.

Now, service providers are scrounging for places to cut in the face of rising costs and unpaid Medicaid claims from the state's new managed care system, Heritage Health. Some providers have said they're still waiting on claims the system should have paid three months ago.


Dubas, a former state senator, said she understands the budget predicament but argued that the cuts will ultimately cost the state more. Parents who don't get treatment for a drug addiction or mental health problem are more likely to lose custody of their children, putting additional strain on Nebraska's child welfare system, she said.

Additionally, Dubas said service cuts could lead more residents to seek treatment in emergency rooms at a far greater cost.
Programs for addiction, mental health facing cuts

It's like a domino effect. Not to mention the fact that not getting paid on time does not help.

I am going to look into this in the morning..it angers me so much

 

[EvilCat Breath]

State paid medical care doesn't work. Who knew?

 

[Disir]

State paid medical care doesn't work. Who knew?

It's managed via contract. This is what happens when you contract with a company to manage it.

 

[Timmy]

Cons are upset that the jails aren't as full. This is the easiest way to change that.