MBIPC Applauds Legislature for Increased Funding for Medicaid Brain Injury Services Program
Funding will ensure more equitable access to early intervention, leading to better outcomes
BRIGHTON, Mich.—(July 6, 2023)—The Michigan Brain Injury Provider Council applauds the Michigan Legislature for approving a Department of Health and Human Services budget that increases funding for the state’s Medicaid Brain Injury Services Program—a move that will result in more equitable access to early intervention, leading to better outcomes.
“This funding shows the power of working collaboratively to pave the way for better outcomes for Michiganders who need expert rehabilitative care for brain injuries," MBIPC Executive Director Tom Judd said. "MBIPC worked collaboratively as partners with the Brain Injury Association of Michigan and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to establish a reasonable daily rate that provides appropriate reimbursement for the services and care required for people rehabilitating from an acquired brain injury. This funding is a win for every single individual who relies on Medicaid for benefits. Studies confirm that when it comes to brain injuries, the right care at the right time can drastically change the trajectory of improvement."
In 2020, MBIPC helped secure improvements to the Medicaid Brain Injury Services Program, expanding access to care and addressing unnecessary barriers in the program’s requirements, providing a more comprehensive policy for care providers and patients seeking services.
However, reimbursement levels for these services had not increased substantially in decades, which has kept providers from accepting referrals. The funds allocated in the approved budget will work to close this gap and increase the number of patients able to utilize this program.
Judd singled out State Rep. Angela Witmer and State Sen. Sarah Anthony, chairs of the Appropriations Committees in their respective chambers, for their work getting the funding over the finish line.
"This funding supports Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s health objective of increasing Medicaid health access and equity," Judd said. "Providers of residential treatment will be able to accept referrals for people who meet the eligibility criteria--resulting in shorter hospital stays and safe and appropriate discharge locations. Individuals on Medicaid will have more equitable access to early intervention, leading to better health and functional outcomes."
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Members of the Michigan Brain Injury Provider Council are committed to providing high-quality, ethical rehabilitation services, with the mission of achieving the best outcomes for patients. As a trade association established in 1987 and based in Brighton, Michigan, MBIPC offers resource-sharing, information exchange, professional development and education, advocacy for brain injury standards of care and legislation protecting Michigan families, and the promotion of ethical conduct.