Sen. Messmer: Ensuring Hoosier Children Have Access to the Best Medical Treatment

Children with severe medical issues must often make frequent trips to a pediatric medical specialist, and in the most difficult circumstances, stay for a period of time at a children's hospital. We know how hard these situations are on the child and their family.

Until recently, state border lines prevented Hoosier children on Medicaid from receiving Indiana's reimbursement rate if they sought medical coverage in a neighboring state. Even if that out-of-state facility was closer to their home, they could not receive Medicaid coverage. This would force families to travel hours out of their way because they had to seek care exclusively in Indiana.

House Enrolled Act 1305, which passed the General Assembly unanimously this session, allows for children's hospitals in Indiana's bordering states to treat Medicaid-covered Hoosier children with Indiana's reimbursement rate – reducing the need for excessive travel for pediatric Medicaid services. This legislation would affect inpatient and outpatient Medicaid services for children in qualifying states that also border Indiana.

Every child deserves the best medical treatment available. HEA 1305 makes it easier on families by giving them a larger health care network that also allows them to seek treatment at out-of-state children's hospitals that are significantly closer to where they live.

This legislation lessens the burden on Hoosier parents and children, ensuring that no family is forced to travel hours out of their way when a pediatric medical provider across the state line is just a few minutes from their home.

As always, feel free to contact my office directly with your questions and concerns by email at [email protected] or by phone at 800-382-9467