PLATTSBURGH — As the battle over Medicaid reform rages on, one local group is watching closely.
Robert Poulin of the North Country Center for Independence says he is concerned that any cuts or caps to the Medicaid program could result in a loss of critical services to some clients.
"A cap on Medicaid could cause a rationing of services and a reduction of services,’’ Poulin said.
He raised his concerns publicly at a recent Clinton County Legislature meeting and Chamber of Commerce Legislative Forum breakfast.
Cuts in services could mean institutional care for some clients instead of home-based services, he said.
"These programs are vital for people’s lives.
"We have no desire to bankrupt the county, but we need these programs to be viable, and community-based programs are a way to save money.’’
Clinton County, like most counties in the state, is fighting a difficult battle against rising Medicaid costs.
Medicaid accounts for about 70 percent of the county’s budget, and it appears it will continue to rise.
One idea being floated to address the problem is to install a cap on county Medicaid costs, while the state picks up the rest of the tab.
State Sen. Betty Little said a proposed cap would save the county about $480,000.
"But we should not be taking aid away from the elderly or the disabled,’’ she said.
Poulin said he is wary of any more state involvement in Medicaid programs.
"Clinton County does a great job of providing services, and we wouldn’t mind the state taking over more, but we want it done carefully,’’ he said.
"We want more home care instead of institutional care.’’
Legislator Keith Defayette (D-Area 5, Schuyler Falls) said a cap would only limit the county’s portion of the Medicaid cost.
"It wouldn’t cut services. The state would just pay the rest,’’ he said.
The issue continues to be debated as state legislators near the April 1 budget deadline.
Poulin hopes a definitive solution can be found.
"It’s been our experience that things can be left vague and the state doesn’t always do what it’s supposed to do, but we hope money can continue to go toward community-based programs.’’