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Legislature pressed to identify health funds
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Posted on Feb 21 2001
Department of Public Health officials yesterday urged the Legislature to identify funding sources to maximize the utilization of Medicaid benefits of health patients in Northern Marianas.
Health Secretary Joseph Kevin Villagomez said the department will be able to get needed matching funds from the federal government once alternative sources of funds are identified.
Since the department is operating on a continuing budget resolution, the secretary explained a move from the Legislature identifying appropriations for DPH will help them source out federal assistance immediately.
He noted however that although allocations are made every time the department is in dire need of financial appropriations, reprogramming budget allocations can be easily implemented especially if major programs won’t be affected.
But still, DPH needs a legislative move to help it secure federal funds that would allow the agency to fully utilize Medicaid programs and extensively assist patients who need the benefits.
The proposal made by the health department is part of the restructuring of the Medicaid State Plan in hopes to make the program less restrictive and viable to all concerns.
“We get close to $2 million share but the federal won’t put up the money unless the local government assures us there is a matching fund for that,” the health secretary explained.
On the present status of health department, he admitted that the is a difficulty right now to maximize their appropriations and implement much needed assistance to Commonwealth Health Center patients.
The lack of budget dramatically affects the medication of some patients considering the huge number of beneficiaries. He said the State Plan is expected to be completed this Fiscal Year. (EGA)
