Press Releases
12/09/2024
INDEPENDENT ANALYSIS INTO MEDICAID PROGRAM REVEALS STATE’S OPERATING METHODS ARE COST-EFFECTIVE AND HIGH-PERFORMING
The Connecticut Department of Social Services today released the final report containing an independent analysis of Connecticut’s Medicaid program, and its findings reveal that the state’s current method of operating this federally funded program is cost-effective and high-performing, while identifying some areas where further improvements can be made.
The analysis, which was conducted by Accenture and Manatt at the request of the state, evaluated the current program’s cost efficiency, quality, and access, while also exploring whether other models of operations could be an improvement over the current system, which operates through an administrative services organization model.
It finds that Connecticut’s program stands out as a model of cost-efficiency, with per capita spending 14% lower than the average of most northeastern states, and administrative costs significantly lower than managed care states (3.8% vs. 9.4%). It also shows that the state is meeting national benchmarks to provide reliable service delivery while maintaining fiscal responsibility and is performing above the median on approximately 70% of national adult and child quality measures.
The report suggests other states could benefit from reviewing Connecticut’s program as a blueprint to achieve similar results.
“Independent reviews of state-operated programs provide policymakers and residents with valuable data revealing whether these programs are functioning in a cost-effective manner, while also showing whether they are achieving their intended purpose in the best way possible,” Governor Lamont said. “I want Connecticut to be doing everything we can to ensure that our residents who rely on Medicaid are receiving access to high-quality, equitable care and that we are using these federal dollars most efficiently. This analysis confirms that we are on the right track, but it also highlights areas where we can do better, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions and those with complex needs. Connecticut’s Medicaid program is delivering strong outcomes at a lower cost than our peers, and by building on this solid foundation we can continue our efforts to deliver quality care to those who need it most.”
“This analysis underscores the strengths of Connecticut’s Medicaid program while providing a clear roadmap for where we need to focus next,” Social Services Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves said. “By prioritizing improvements in care management and pharmacy cost control, we can continue delivering high-quality care to our residents without the risks associated with transitioning to managed care.”
The report provides several options for ways the state can improve the program, including through enhancements to advanced care strategies for acute and chronic conditions that can improve outcomes and reduce avoidable hospitalizations, as well as through the implementation of innovative approaches to long-term services and supports for seniors and managing prescription drug costs while maintaining access for beneficiaries.
**This version of the release contains a link to the report on Connecticut’s Medicaid program by Accenture and Manatt.
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For Immediate Release:
December 6, 2024
Contact: Christine Stuart
Connecticut Department of Social Services
christine.stuart@ct.gov
860-822-7588