Plans to change Michigan’s mental health system would take a step forward under a budget plan moving through the Legislature.
The legislation calls for a pilot program in Kent County that would integrate Medicaid's mental and physical health services under private insurers.
Mental health advocacy groups say that would compromise the quality of care for patients. Backers say it will make the system more efficient.
Dominick Pallone, executive director of the Michigan Association of Health Plans, joined Stateside to share his thoughts on the issue.
Pallone said his group is “very happy” with the proposed Department of Health and Human Services budget.
“We’re very confident that there’s an opportunity here to improve physical and behavioral health outcomes for the Medicaid enrollees, and we believe we can maximize efficiencies in the system and minimize unnecessary costs,” he said.
Hear Stateside’s conversation with Pallone above.
Minding Michigan is Stateside’s ongoing series that examines mental health issues in our state.
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