NY Hospital to be Shut Down the Reduce Medicaid Costs

The best way to reduce medicaid costs is to eliminate it and make people get a job.

Because obviously all people on medicaid are just lazy. Theres no other reason...none. Sounds good. Maybe you can make the suggestion to Obama 44 after Michelle finishes putting up the new drapes.

I'm sure you posted that remark because it is so flippant and arrogant (not to mention how it reeks of resentment for those you think you are above)and you like to rattle cages.

I know some people who work damn hard who can't afford insurance like you get. I work with some CNAs who are on Medicaid. If you don't know what a hard job they have you don't know what a job is.

Unfortunately, State governments are facing financial pressures and are trying to figure out ways to balance budgets. I don't know what the answer is, but the fact of the matter is that medical care is expensive and tax revenues are falling short.

Another solution would be to raise taxes.

This idea will just further overcrowd the ERs!

Won't even dignify the "get a job" post with a response.

In PA, 52% of medicaid recipients are children under the age of 21, additional 20% are disabled, unable to work..

There are economic maket forces that will close hospitals. Over the past 15 years, Philadelphia area has had several hospitals close...off the top of my head: St John Neumann, JFK, Parkview, MCP, City Avenue, Warminister, and last year Graduate. Occupency rates are now close to 75-80% or more at other hospitals. ER wait times---through the roof, often 1-2hrs, up to 5hrs in peak periods evenings. We have minimal urgent care centers in this market. Area ripe for NP clinics, several just getting started.

Move to Medicaid Managed Care HMO's has helped cut costs, provide medical home and improve chronic disease managment. However, making individuals responsible for decisions and followup another kettle of fish.

A lot of people with jobs are uninsured, unfortunately. Having a job is no guarantee to access to health care.

I agree with Karen, Nurse Practitioners and Physicians Assistants are the wave of the future.

To CRNA 2007...all I can say is wow..at the comment about people on medicaid getting a job. Up until 1 month ago I was a HR Manager at a global company making $86,500 a year and then corporate decided to close my location. Now I am 8 months pregnant and on medicaid because no one will hire me and I refuse to go without prenatal care and to deliver without health insurance. My husband is self employed and was on my health insurance. My point being..medicaid is a good option for people that have fallen on hard times-and to make a comment like "get a job" is pretty small minded.