State seeks to continue the successful Healthy Indiana Plan for low-income Hoosiers

Extension would add access for drug abuse treatment to attack the epidemic

INDIANAPOLIS – Today, Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb formally submitted the state’s application to the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) along with a letter requesting continued flexibility to maintain and develop the current version of the Healthy Indiana Plan, commonly known as HIP 2.0, which expires January 31, 2018. If approved, HIP would continue through Jan. 31, 2021.

The application requests program enhancements, including expanded access to substance use disorder services. Pending approval, these additional services would be available for members in all Medicaid programs as well as Healthy Indiana Plan members.

“Far too many Hoosiers are caught in the strangling grip of drugs,” Governor Holcomb said. “I intend to attack Indiana’s drug epidemic with every tool available to state government, and this application reflects my commitment to doing just that.”

The waiver application, posted online at www.hip.in.gov, maintains the core elements of HIP 2.0, including member contributions and consumer-driven features that encourage preventive care, while discouraging unhealthy behaviors and lifestyle choices that drive up the cost of health care.

The newly proposed waiver also adds new incentives for members to improve their health through tobacco cessation, chronic disease management, and access to a voluntary job referral and training program.

“The Healthy Indiana Plan continues to evolve to address the most pressing health and economic needs of low-income Hoosiers,” said Indiana Family and Social Services Secretary Jennifer Walthall, MD, MPH. “This next iteration will add more of what HIP does best: adding value for members who choose to engage in their health and incentivizing good, healthy choices.”

“Indiana has built a program that is delivering real results in a responsible, efficient, and effective way,” Governor Holcomb said. “I look forward to maintaining the flexibility to grow this remarkably successful tool and to preserve our ability to respond to the unique needs of Hoosiers.”

Read Governor Holcomb’s letter and Indiana’s waiver application at www.hip.in.gov.