Hoosiers enrolled in Medicaid now have the opportunity to directly influence state policy regarding their healthcare through participation in the newly established Beneficiary Advisory Council. The Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) is currently accepting applications for this council, which is crucial for facilitating communication between Medicaid beneficiaries and state officials.
The creation of the Beneficiary Advisory Council is mandated by a new federal regulation aimed at enhancing feedback mechanisms for Medicaid members. According to FSSA representative Charity Lumpkin, the council will establish a vital channel for what she describes as “bidirectional feedback” between Medicaid enrollees and the state’s healthcare administrators. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for the voices of those who rely on Medicaid services to be heard in policy discussions.
Open to all individuals enrolled in Medicaid, as well as their family members and caregivers—both paid and unpaid—the council aims to assemble a diverse group representing a wide array of experiences within the Medicaid system. This diversity of perspective is essential, as Lumpkin emphasizes that Medicaid recipients encompass a broad spectrum of needs and backgrounds.
The application process is structured to gather in-depth information about each applicant’s experiences with Medicaid, encompassing both current and historical interactions with the program. FSSA officials will review submitted applications and conduct interviews to select council members, ensuring a comprehensive representation that accurately reflects the MEDICAID population in Indiana. It is noteworthy that four positions on the council will be directly appointed by the Indiana General Assembly, thereby enhancing the council’s credibility and authority.
Applications are due by July 15, and the application can be completed online or submitted via mail to the FSSA’s Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning. The state anticipates that the Beneficiary Advisory Council will be active by the end of September, contributing to ongoing dialogues about Medicaid policy and administration.
Additionally, the council’s establishment coincides with mandated changes to the Medicaid Advisory Committee (MAC) under the same federal regulation. By July 11, 2027, one-quarter of MAC membership is required to consist of individuals serving on both the MAC and the Beneficiary Advisory Council. This alignment is expected to foster collaborative discussions and informed decision-making regarding Medicaid services in Indiana.
As systemic healthcare changes continue to evolve, initiatives such as the Beneficiary Advisory Council represent critical steps towards more responsive and inclusive policymaking. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply and participate in this important forum, which stands to benefit not only Medicaid members but also the broader Indiana community. For further information and to access the application form, individuals can visit the FSSA’s official website.
