Medicaid

A new report shows that the population that uses public assistance programs is diverse.

As Montana’s population ages, providers serving low-income seniors say more people aren’t getting the care they need as they wait to get on Medicaid. Montana lawmakers are considering creating a shortcut to that care.

The Montana Supreme Court upheld a temporary block Wednesday on laws that would restrict access to abortion while a lawsuit continues to play out in district court.

From abortion access to getting timely care, health care reporter Aaron Bolton spoke with MTPR's Elinor Smith about the context behind some voters' concerns.

A state commission charged with rebuilding the state’s behavioral and mental health system has finalized its list of 22 recommendations. They will be sent to Gov. Greg Gianforte for approval.

State health officials say the number of Montanans on Medicaid is down roughly 5 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels. That’s according to the state’s final report on its Medicaid redetermination process.

A group of 65 hospitals, health departments, advocacy groups and tribes are asking Gov. Greg Gianforte to invest in services that will help Montanans maintain Medicaid coverage.

Montana lawmakers in 2025 will have to decide whether or not to reauthorize Medicaid expansion — the health coverage program that expanded Medicaid eligibility to more low-income adults. Montana’s next governor could have the final say given the executive power of the veto pen.

Nearly 130,000 Montanans lost Medicaid coverage during recent eligibility reviews. People who are homeless are more likely to have chronic health issues and particularly vulnerable to losing coverage.

The Montana Primary Care Association is launching a program to help people who lost Medicaid during the state’s evaluation process reapply.