Gov. Mary Fallin has applied to participate in an Affordable Care Act program designed to help states develop innovative models for delivering care and reducing costs for participants in Medicaid, Medicare and the Childrens Health Insurance Program. In a story posted on July 31, Oklahoma Watch reported inaccurately that the state had chosen not to participate in the State Innovation Models grant program. The inaccuracy was caused by a series of miscommunications between Oklahoma Watch and the governors office.
Fallins grant application is significant because it suggests she is willing to pursue federal funding opportunities provided by the Affordable Care Act despite her opposition to two of its key components: Medicaid expansion and creation of a state-run health exchange.
In an application dated July 18, Fallin requested $3 million, the maximum amount allowed for the type of grant the state is seeking, to develop an Oklahoma State Innovation Model based on health system innovation that makes good business sense.
The grant application targets four pervasive health problems: obesity, diabetes, hypertension and tobacco use. It notes that Oklahoma has high rates of deaths caused by heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes.
In a time of great confusion and transition in health care, our states citizens, businesses and health care providers need to be engaged and supported in improving health, Fallin wrote to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
I have personally assembled a team of proven leaders and experts to serve as the OSIM leadership from both the private and public sectors to take up this monumental challenge, and my office will provide the necessary policy guidance to ensure this projects success.
Oklahomans are paying for the State Innovation Model whether we apply for it or not. We can oppose the ACA and still get our non-voluntary contribution's worth.
