FIFTY-SEVENTH WYOMING LEGISLATURE

APPROVED INTERIM COMMITTEE STUDIES

2003 INTERIM

THE JOINT LABOR, HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES INTERIM COMMITTEE

Initial Budget Approved:  $30,000

Topic 1:            Medicaid

The Committee will review the Medicaid program because recent expansions of authorized services have placed a burden on the ability of the State to meet the needs of eligible Wyoming citizens. The Committee has continuing responsibilities in a joint subcommittee with the Joint Appropriations Committee to look at cost containment in the program. The Committee will also study the effect of uncompensated care, including trauma care, and reimbursement to medical facilities and providers, and the effect of these issues on access to health care.

Topic 2:            Workers' Compensation Program

Concern has been expressed at the backlog of cases before the Workers' Compensation Medical Commission and the need for amending provision relating to third party recovery and subrogation and related issues.

Topic 3:            Healthcare Workforce Issues

The Committee will address various issues related to healthcare workforce services, including expanding physician training opportunities, reviewing salaries of public health nurses, nursing recruitment and retention and establishing magnet hospital programs.

Topic 4:            Federal Compliance Issues

Changes in federal programs with respect to unemployment insurance, job programs, welfare reform and prescription drugs are being proposed. The Committee will study those proposed changes to gauge the impact of federal mandates on state programs and responsibilities and to respond to those federal initiatives with appropriate draft legislation.