Idaho to Replace Healthy Connections Program, 3-Year Gap Anticipated

A new bill that reduces the cost of Medicaid eliminates the long-standing Healthy Connections Program, reports East Idaho News. For nearly 20 years, the program has helped Medicaid patients coordinate care through a primary provider. It will be replaced by a managed care model in which private companies oversee Medicaid services. The Department of Health and Welfare must submit a proposal by July 1, 2027. However, any managed care is not expected to begin until 2029, creating a three-year gap in care coordination.