CONTACT: Beth Kaplan, (608) 266-1683

Department of Health Services to Hold Medicaid
Town Hall Meeting in Eau Claire

MADISON—Department of Health Services Secretary Dennis Smith and Deputy Secretary Kitty Rhoades will hold a Town Hall meeting in Eau Claire next week to collect ideas from consumers, community partners, and providers on efficiencies and cost-savings related to the state's Medical Assistance programs.

"Despite a historic 23% increase to the Department's budget, Wisconsin's Medicaid program still faces a serious fiscal challenge over the next two years as we identify over $500 million in cost savings. To meet our goals, and balance the Medicaid budget, we have to find ways to be more efficient and cut costs," said Secretary Smith. "Because no one has better insight into cost saving opportunities than the people who rely on the programs, we are going to go directly to the people to get their ideas on how to meet this challenge and make our programs better and sustainable."

"Whether you are in BadgerCare, Family Care or SeniorCare, you are on the front lines. You understand these programs because you rely on them," said Deputy Secretary Rhoades. "We want to hear from recipients because not only do they have the most at stake, they have the best input on where the inefficiencies lie."

***Media availability at 12:30 p.m.***

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Last Revised:  March 25, 2011