Health Equity
Medicaid Enrollment Touches 39% of the Residents of The District of Columbia; DC’s 70/30 FMAP is Vital for the Maintenance of Health & Human Services
A reduction in the District’s FMAP would not lead to long-term government savings and would have a ripple effect throughout the entire health system in the DMV, crippling access to care for not only Medicaid beneficiaries but also all those who live, work, and visit the District of Columbia, including members of Congress and their staffs.
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Why does DC receive an Enhanced FMAP Rate?
The DC FMAP rate of 70% established by the Revitalization Act resulted from bipartisan analysis, discussion, and negotiation by Congressional leadership aiming to balance fairness with the District’s restricted ability to generate revenue. Congress recognized that the District of Columbia faces unique financial challenges due to its non-state status and the significant amount of federally-owned land within its boundaries. The District is unable to tax non-residents’ earnings, so these workers pay no taxes to support the infrastructure and services, such as roads, public safety and emergency services that they benefit from in the District. The District is also unable to tax up to 40% of the real property within its borders due to statutory restrictions.
Why are we concerned about DC's FMAP now?
Members of Congress have proposed reducing the DC FMAP to the statutory minimum for all other states, which is currently 50% (but could be reduced even more). Such a change would impact every physician and every practice, regardless of type, location, and payers contracted. Even practices who take no insurance will not be able to send patients for specialist care, hospital admissions, or other types of care.
What can MSDC members do?
- If you know a member of Congress or staffer, reach out to them and share how DC cuts will hurt your patients.
- Share your relationships and outreach with hay@msdc.org so we can help coordinate advocacy efforts.
- Email hay@msdc.org if you would like to be paired with a physician member of Congress office and trained by MSDC staff on how to reach out.
Resources
- DC FMAP cut fact sheet
- California Medical Association fact sheet on Medicaid cuts
- MSDC and healthcare association letter to Congress arguing against DC FMAP changes.
- MSDC original story on Medicaid changes.
News, Statements, and Testimony on Health Equity Issues
MSDC Supported Seizure Plan Bill Passes Council
Another bill supported by MSDC passed the Council yesterday, adding to the Society's impressive advocacy agenda.
B25-571, the Seizure-Safe Schools Amendment Act, passed the Council unanimously. Then-MSDC President Dr. Ashesh Patel testified in favor of the bill at its July 10 hearing.
Bill 25-571 would require schools to have certain staff to be trained in seizure recognition and administering emergency seizure medication. It would ensure students with epilepsy and other seizure disorders have individualized Seizure Action Plans included in their school files, and that the plans are available to personnel responsible for the students. It would offer schools DC Health-led epilepsy and seizure awareness training and provide protection from liability for school employees who are tasked with providing emergency seizure first aid to students under the legislation.
The legislation is expected to be signed by the Mayor and go into effect next year after Congressional review.
Even with the Council session closing in a few weeks, MSDC advocacy is going strong and preparing for the 26th Council. To get involved, contact MSDC.