IN SR0036

Urges the legislative council to assign a study committee to examine Medicaid coverage policies for patients needing specialty care with expanded access to out-of-state and out-of-network facilities.

Addresses concerns that Indiana Medicaid managed care units are denying patients access to specialty care for rare disorders, creating financial and emotional burdens on families and potentially creating life-threatening situations.

Argues that denying specialty care access is fiscally irresponsible, as emergency and critical care costs the state more than preventative specialty care.

Contends that permitting out-of-state and out-of-network access would save lives, improve patient and family quality of life, reduce financial burdens, and be more cost-effective for the state.

Referred to Senate Committee on Health and Provider Services on March 1, 2017, and reported favorably with a "Do Pass" recommendation on March 30, 2017 by a vote of 10-0.