Oklahoma City, OK — The rollout of SoonerSelect, Oklahoma’s new Medicaid managed care model, has sparked significant controversy since its launch on April 1. Senate Bill 1337, passed in 2022, mandated this transition overseen by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA).

Concerns and Criticism

Providers and stakeholders have voiced mounting concerns about SoonerSelect, arguing it has plunged Medicaid into a state of crisis. A Kaiser Family Foundation report from June 2023 revealed that approximately 20% of Oklahoma’s population depends on Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Complaints center on private insurance carriers failing to reimburse providers promptly, jeopardizing the operational viability of clinics statewide.

OHCA Chief of Staff Christina Foss acknowledged these issues, emphasizing the authority’s commitment to resolving provider concerns swiftly. Despite challenges, the OHCA has disbursed $250 million in claims since April 1, with plans to inject an additional half-billion dollars into state hospitals.

Legislative Response and Public Reaction

State Senator David Bullard (R-Durant) condemned the rollout, describing it as disastrous based on feedback from healthcare providers statewide. In response, Foss expressed optimism about SoonerSelect’s early results but acknowledged ongoing challenges in provider relations.

Provider Struggles and OHCA Initiatives

Providers have reported prolonged wait times and bureaucratic hurdles when attempting to communicate with OHCA representatives. Foss assured that the OHCA has implemented measures like in-person and virtual office hours to facilitate better communication and resolution of issues.

Federal Oversight and Future Outlook

The OHCA highlighted federal approvals and a 1915b waiver allowing the managed care transition, countering calls from Sen. Bullard to pause the program. Foss stressed that reverting to a fee-for-service model would be impractical and that supplemental payments crucial for Medicaid in Oklahoma are only viable under managed care.

Conclusion: Moving Forward Amid Controversy

As Oklahoma navigates the complexities of SoonerSelect, stakeholders continue to debate its efficacy and impact. Providers and lawmakers alike call for sustained improvements to ensure Medicaid recipients receive adequate care without disrupting healthcare operations statewide.

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