SUMMARY: Conservative groups aim to roll back Montana’s Medicaid expansion, which covers approximately 78,800 low-income individuals, marking a potential first elimination under the Affordable Care Act since its inception. As the program is set to expire next year, critics argue it’s costly and bloated, while supportive studies show it enhances access to care. The debate centers around differing viewpoints on the program’s impact on vulnerable populations. Montana, unique among states, may face this decision next year, with significant implications on health care access and budget priorities. Supporters emphasize that expansion has notably reduced the uninsured rate in the state.

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SUMMARY: Brigin Feffer, a 2-year-old, was bitten by a rattlesnake in San Diego, requiring over $200,000 worth of antivenom to save his life. He received 30 vials of antivenom, leading to a total medical bill of nearly $300,000, which covered hospital stays and ambulance rides. Hospitals often mark up prices significantly, with charges exceeding $957 per vial at one facility. Only two brands of snake antivenom exist, limiting competition. Although insurance negotiated a reduction in costs, the family faced a substantial deductible and potential additional charges. Brigin has since healed, though nerve damage affects his thumb’s dexterity.

For snakebite victims, antivenom is critical — and costly. It took more than $200,000 worth of antivenom to save one toddler’s life after he was bitten by a rattlesnake.

Read more of this “Bill of the Month” here: https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/toddlers-backyard-snakebite-bills-totaled-more-than-a-quarter-million-dollars/

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SUMMARY: Stephanie, a Florida resident recovering from opioid addiction, faced a crisis when she lost her Medicaid coverage during the state‘s eligibility reevaluation after COVID-19 protections ended. Her treatment with methadone, crucial for managing cravings, became financially burdensome. Reports indicate over 1.9 million Floridians lost Medicaid, jeopardizing addiction treatment access. Experts stress that interruptions in care increase overdose risks. Nonprofits like Operation PAR are struggling to assist uninsured patients amid rising demand. While some individuals regained coverage, many face ongoing challenges, emphasizing the need for stable funding sources to ensure continued access to lifesaving medications for those in recovery.

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