Vermont Establishes Beneficiary Advisory Committee for Medicaid
The Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA) is set to create a Beneficiary Advisory Committee aimed at enhancing the state’s Medicaid programs and policies. A virtual Town Hall held Wednesday informed the public about the initiative, which seeks current and former Medicaid recipients, along with their families or caregivers, to lend their voices to the committee.
Kirsten Murphy, Executive Director of the Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council and co-chair of Vermont’s Medicaid and Exchange Advisory Committee, explained that this initiative aligns with federal requirements established to standardize care, especially in home and community-based services. “The federal government’s new rules aim to ensure states improve access to Medicaid services, addressing existing barriers,” Murphy noted.
The new committee will create a platform for individuals with firsthand experiences of navigating Vermont’s Medicaid system to share insights and recommendations. “Your lived experiences make you experts in managing Medicaid for yourself or your loved ones,” Murphy added. She emphasized the importance of including beneficiaries in the policymaking process, especially as the Medicaid landscape may face future changes.
Zack Goss, Director of Customer Communications at DVHA, highlighted that the selection process for committee members will conclude by early July, with the first meeting anticipated in late summer or early fall. The committee will have a minimum of six members and will convene at least four times a year.
Murphy expressed confidence in the committee’s potential, stating, “Having beneficiary voices at the table is vital as Vermont navigates upcoming challenges.” This innovative approach aims to empower those directly affected by Medicaid policies, ensuring that their experiences inform future decisions.
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