KAUFMAN - What would you do if your paycheck was cut by 10 percent? That's how much state lawmakers want to reduce Medicaid reimbursement for Texas doctors.
Ten years ago, two-thirds accepted Medicaid to help those who can't afford health insurance. Today, the Texas Medical Association says fewer than half do. Now, if more cuts come, even more doctors may be out.
Dr. Turner Lewis is the last pediatrician in Kaufman County still taking new Medicaid patients; it's a money losing deal since Medicaid only covers about 60 percent of his costs, add in the 10 percent fee cut that's in the proposed House budget. There is also the pressure of keeping all his staff, which includes specialized pediatric nurses.
"It's going to be a problem," he said. "You know, if you focus on quality, there's a cost to quality obviously."
Lewis said he won't drop Medicaid, but he knows other doctors will, especially in rural areas.
Gale Crawford is eligible for Medicaid because of a disability. She brings her grandchildren to Lewis, but finding a physician for herself is near impossible.
"So, I don't go to the doctor, and I really need to because I have some health issues but I can't afford to go pay $100 out of my pocket," she said.
Democrats and low-income advocates harshly criticize the proposed cuts. But, the Republican super majority in the House says voters clearly want cuts, not more taxes.
"We must find a way to live within our budget," said Rep. Jim Pitts, of Waxahachie. "This budget does that."
But, those at Dallas County's Parkland Hospital believe as doctors drop Medicaid, their patients will end up at Parkland. That would raise costs and potentially local taxes.
As Lewis examines patients, he knows he'll be taking trips to the Texas Capitol soon.
"[The] solution is to lobby, lobby, lobby down in Austin," he said.
