ATLANTA (Feb. 19, 2010) – Continuing his quest toward consumer-driven reform of Georgia’s health care system, Sen. Preston Smith (R-Rome) is working to establish legislative oversight of Medicaid and Care Management Organizations (CMO), which manage the delivery of Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids services to patients.
“As legislators, we’ve all heard numerous issues from patients, health care consumers and medical providers surrounding the administration of Medicaid and PeachCare,” said Sen. Smith. “This oversight committee will bring additional transparency and accountability to Medicaid and CMOs to ensure that those who rely on health care assistance receive the care they need. This bill gives legislators more influence to help our constituents when they have issues in these areas.”
Additionally, the committee will oversee consumer complaints dealing with eligibility determinations and payment and coverage issues. Members will also ensure that CMOs are complying with their contractual agreements with consumers, as well as making sure the organizations comply with all rules and regulations. The state Department of Community Health and Department of Insurance will work closely with the committee and provide any information requested, creating better coordination between state agencies to see that consumer complaints and issues are resolved quickly.
The committee will consist of four members from the Senate and four members from the House, and will be required to submit an annual report to the governor. Senate Bill 443 is a bipartisan measure that has already received the support of almost 50 of the Senate’s 56 members.
“Health care isn’t known for being a consumer-friendly industry, however, it’s an essential part of everyone’s well being. Georgians deserve a system that is fair and transparent, and I feel it’s my duty to those I represent to ensure we’re doing all we can at the state level to ensure the system treats patients fairly. This bill fits into my overall effort this year to promote wider access to health care with patient and consumer-focused legislation.”
Sen. Preston Smith serves as chairman of the Judiciary Committee. He represents the 52nd Senate District which includes Floyd County and portions of Bartow and Gordon counties. He may be reached by phone at 404.656.0034 or by e-mail at preston.smith@senate.ga.gov.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
February 19, 2010
For Information Contact:
Raegan Weber, Director
Kallarin Richards, Senior Communications Specialist
kallarin.richards@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028