Senator Sabrina Salas Matanane has introduced landmark legislation that would give healthcare providers financial incentives to accept over 30,000 Medicaid patients. 

The legislation, known as the "Guam Medicaid Access Enhancement Act," creates a strategic business privilege tax discount system for healthcare providers serving Medicaid patients.

Bill No. 118-38 addresses the root cause of provider hesitancy to take on Medicaid patients, a majority who fall under the low-income bracket, which are low Medicaid reimbursement rates.

“30,000 residents –nearly 20% of our population –who are enrolled in Medicaid struggle to find healthcare due to the limited number of providers and facilities that accept Medicaid patients,” said Sen. Salas Matanane. “This ‘Medicaid Access Enhancement Act’ will make it more attractive for medical clinics to accept and properly treat these residents through discounts in Business Privilege Taxes. This bill creates a tiered incentive structure which rewards providers who employ more qualified healthcare professionals and establish multiple service locations across the island. Now, that’s real access to healthcare.”

Additionally, Matanane said the benefits are numerous, as are the security features.

“When this bill becomes law, the strain on emergency rooms and fire stations for non-emergencies will subside significantly by ensuring more appropriate preventive and primary care options are available to Medicaid beneficiaries. Also, it establishes a clear audit trail through the certification process, enhancing our ability to prevent Medicaid fraud and ensure accountability. Our committee also included in the bill, requirements of annual progress reports to the Legislature and Governor, ensuring transparency and enabling evidence-based policy adjustments. This is a win-win for all involved and a huge step forward to ensuring virtually every resident has access to much-needed healthcare,” added Matanane.

The bill has received overwhelming support, with 9 cosponsors who have signed on.