Idaho officials are taking public comments on a Medicaid waiver that would require patients to get a referral from a primary physician before they can get family planning services like birth control, abortions, or pregnancy care.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare will take comments through October 12th on the waiver that’s required when the state wants to deviate from standard Medicaid rules.
The state contends the referral requirement will lead to better patient outcomes, while critics say it’s an attempt to prevent women from seeking medical help. The waiver is among several lawmakers earlier this year attached to a voter-approved law expanding Medicaid expansion.
Federal officials last month rejected a waiver allowing those who qualify for Medicaid to instead stay on Idaho’s health insurance exchange. (AP)
