Monday, March 12, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Expands Breakthrough Health Care Program to Sickle Cell Patients
ST. LOUIS–Gov. Matt Blunt today discussed his plan to expand a cutting-edge state program to Medicaid patients with sickle cell disease, a painful and debilitating blood disorder that primarily affects African Americans. Gov. Blunt made the announcement at St. Louis Children's Hospital.
"Unlike the old Medicaid, MO HealthNet is focused on health not sickness and providing patients the tools they need to improve their quality of life," Blunt said. "We began the breakthrough Chronic Care Improvement Program to recognize some Missourians need more help and attention than others. Now we are expanding this program to include sickle cell disease so patients with the blood disorder will have access to the specialized attention that can dramatically improve their quality of life."
The Chronic Care Improvement Program (CCIP) is part of the state's efforts to improve health care for low income and disabled Missourians. It is a key component of Blunt's MO HealthNet plan that significantly improves care for patients with chronic diseases.
People who suffer from long-term chronic diseases, including diabetes, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, cardiovascular disease, and now sickle cell disease may choose to participate in the CCIP.
Sickle cell disease affects thousands of Missourians every year, but regular medical care can significantly improve the lives of those living with the disease.
Under Blunt's plan, CCIP now provides access for Medicaid eligible patients with sickle cell disease to the following:
- Sickle cell disease specialists and treatment centers.
- Disease management education and informational services to help prevent sickle cell-related strokes.
- Genetic testing services through the Department of Health and Senior Services.
CCIP is the first program in the nation to use an online care management tool to improve care for low-income citizens. The program includes a secure Internet-based information sharing tool customized to meet individual patient needs.
Participants may access referrals to appropriate specialists and treatment centers, information about how best to manage their condition and opportunities to learn more about their disease and the most successful methods of treatment. The coordinated care and information helps patients avoid frustrating emergency room visits and frequent or lengthy hospital stays.
CCIP also includes incentives for providers who work with patients to help them successfully manage their disease. In addition it gives healthcare providers current information about best practices for chronically ill patients. The program was started in November 2006, and has now been expanded to include patients with sickle cell disease.