State-level Medicaid cuts could have impact beyond federal reductions

In related news, Minnesota Public Radio reports on how the well-being of rural health providers is linked to Medicaid and Medicare reimbursement.

Politico Pro: State Medicaid Cuts Could Matter More
For all of the concerns Medicaid advocates have about federal cuts in the deficit reduction talks, the real threat is likely to come from cuts already happening at the state level — because those can have an even bigger impact on the program. Thirty-one states have proposed — or already passed — 2012 budgets that cut into public health programs like Medicaid, according to a new analysis from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The funding drop-offs are steep, ranging upward of $1 billion (Kliff, 6/21).

Minnesota Public Radio: Rural Health Care Under Pressure
Greater reliance on Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement makes rural providers vulnerable. Rural people tend to be older and poorer, are less likely to have insurance and suffer more chronic illness. And the doctor shortage has gotten harder to deal with. In response, care is changing. ... MPR News compiled this Ground Level page to shine a light on examples and provide ways to learn more and get engaged (6/20).