States Look to Cut Medicaid Vision Benefits

"New York State spent more than $20 billion on Medicaid this fiscal year — or nearly a quarter of the total operating budget. With the state confronting a projected $10 billion deficit for next year, Gov. Andrew Cuomo has little choice but to cut back the program," goes an editorial in the NYTimes. "New York also provides a large menu of 'optional benefits,' including prescription drugs, dental and vision care…That is good for the health of low-income residents, but savings will have to be found." Yesterday California senators, facing similar challenges as New York's politicians, considered cutting its Medicaid vision benefits but backed off.