heduled to hear two bills that would allow “insurance-like” products that would create instability in the market, drive up premiums, and expose Texans, particularly those with pre-existing conditions, to significant liabilities.

Thursday kicks off Nurses Week, which runs from May 6 through 12 this year. While all nurses deserve to be celebrated, TAHP would like to highlight a special group of nurses in Medicaid managed care. Texans with complex medical needs in Medicaid have access to health plan nurses who provide one-on-one support and walk families through every step of the complicated and overwhelming health care system.

When members of the Texas Legislature consider a bill, they often consider the fiscal note (an estimate of what new legislation would cost the state) to weigh the costs and benefits of the legislation and make a decision. But when it comes to health care, legislators also need to understand the financial impact new health insurance mandates have on Texas employers and families.

While the Texas Legislature has devoted considerable resources to combating fraud, waste and abuse in the state’s Medicaid program, little has been done to combat the same issues in the commercial insurance market where abuse is 50% more prevalent and costs $75 billion more than in Medicaid.

Today’s Texas Medicaid health plans provide more than health care coverage—they connect Texans to the personalized care and support they need to stay healthy and live their lives to the fullest. Texas Medicaid health plans also provide services that go beyond the walls of a doctor’s office, including helping with transportation, coordinating meals, helping with housing and navigating challenges at school and work.

As the old joke goes, drug dealers always offer you the first hit for free because once they get you hooked, you’ll be back for more and willing to pay. When similar incentives are offered by Big Pharma for high-priced prescription drugs, the joke’s on patients and employers who pay for health coverage.