Many of the health disparities in the US are linked to income. In general… the lower a family’s income the greater the prevalence of health disparities. Health impacts from smoking cigarettes are no exception. Arizonans below the poverty line (100% of FPL) are 40% more likely to smoke than those with more money... and about 34% of [...]
You’ve probably heard the words “meaningful use” thrown around… but what is it? Basically, it’s using electronic health record technology to: 1) Improve quality, safety, efficiency, and reduce health disparities; 2) Engage patients and family; 3) Improve care coordination, and population and public health; and 4) Maintain privacy and security of patient health information. Using [...]
As you’ve probably seen, the Legislature went into a special session and worked some long hours to pass a FY 2014 budget. While we’re still analyzing everything, here are some key provisions of the budget bill as it was sent to the Governor. Medicaid (AHCCCS) will be restored and expanded. This will be a big [...]
I’m happy to announce that I’ve permanently appointed Cory Nelson as our official Deputy Director for Behavioral Health. He’s been serving in the Acting capacity since August of ‘12 and has shown great skill and leadership in the position. He’s been very successful working with our leadership and our Agency team as well as our [...]
Last Saturday our Licensing team hit the mark at Showtime- when it matters most. After hearing that the Fountain Retirement Hotel had put residents on notice it was closing, we immediately became concerned that staff would stop showing up, food and medication would not be given out, and the residents would be turned out into the [...]
Starting today, AHCCCS is reopening enrollment in the KidsCare II program. Arizona's Temporary Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is accepting applications again. Enrollment was suspended in September and many people were put on a wait list – those kids will be automatically enrolled and do not need to reapply. KidsCare II criteria include income guidelines [...]
The next 2 years will be a time of transition for how vaccines are delivered and paid for in the US- as national policy shifts to the new order under the Affordable Care Act. In the short-term there'll be some transition challenges- but in the long run- it should be easier to keep up our vaccination rates. In [...]
AHCCCS will host public meetings across the state to provide additional information regarding the future of Arizona’s Medicaid program. Here's the Public Meeting Schedule and more information.
More good news… starting last week- more uninsured women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer will be eligible to receive comprehensive treatment through Arizona’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program (which is administered by AHCCCS). In the past, only women diagnosed through Well Woman HealthCheck were able to access treatment through the Program. The American Cancer [...]
Now that the Supreme Court has spoken regarding the Affordable Care Act- States have a lot more clarity around the decisions they'll need to make and what they need to do to implement the law. The Governor kicked off a process to review the options and engage Stakeholders for their input this week. Additional meetings are being scheduled in the coming [...]
