FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Doug McGinn January 22, 1999 (202) 225-3031 RYAN PRAISES WAIVER APPROVAL FOR WISCONSIN'S BADGERCARE PROGRAM
JANESVILLE -- First District Congressman Paul Ryan today hailed the announcement that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has granted the State of Wisconsin the necessary waivers needed to expand the BadgerCare health program for uninsured children and adults from low-income families. "Wisconsin continues to serve a model for other states to follow in providing needed services in more effective and compassionate ways."
The BadgerCare program is expected to cover an additional 46,000 uninsured, low-income Wisconsin residents, including over 23,000 children. BadgerCare was implemented to accommodate families ineligible for Medicaid, but unable to afford private health insurance.
"This is a great example of where the federal government can work with states in implementing creative and innovative programs to deal with healthcare problems closer to those in need," said Ryan. "Wisconsin continues to serve a model for other states to follow in providing needed services in more effective and compassionate ways."
"Governor Thompson and his administration deserve great praise for their efforts. They have led the way in proving that by empowering states and local communities with power and decision-making, dramatic results can occur with greater efficiency and cost savings. Likewise, I commend U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala for working with Wisconsin to forge this partnership and helping to make this program a reality."
For additional information, or to speak to Congressman Ryan about the waivers, please contact Doug McGinn at (202) 225-3031.