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AIDS under a competitive Medicaid program in a "second wave" state: Arizona's experience
1School of Health Administration and Policy, College of Business, Arizona State University.
QRB. Quality Review Bulletin
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Arizona's Medicaid program, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), faces challenges in responding to the AIDS epidemic. Its competitive bidding structure may hinder timely care unless adapted for the epidemic's unique needs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Policy
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Arizona ranks twenty-first nationally in reported Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) cases, indicating a significant public health burden.
- The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) is Arizona's unique, competitive bidding-based Medicaid program.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the AHCCCS's response to the escalating AIDS epidemic.
- To identify potential policy barriers within AHCCCS affecting AIDS care delivery.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving interviews with 50 administrators and healthcare providers.
- Analysis of healthcare policy within the context of the AIDS epidemic in Arizona.
Main Results:
- AHCCCS's capitated, competitive bidding model may not adequately address the complex and evolving needs of AIDS patients.
- Price competition among health plans could potentially delay or compromise the delivery of appropriate AIDS care.
Conclusions:
- The current AHCCCS structure may require modifications to ensure a timely and effective response to the AIDS epidemic.
- Integrating the specific characteristics of the AIDS epidemic into health plan policies is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.