State Representative Jim Buchy
Reforming Medicaid to Reduce Government Dependency 

Ronald Reagan was addressing the National FFA when he said, “The ten most dangerous words in the English language are, ‘Hi, I’m from the government and I’m here to help.’ In a way, he was poking fun at the inability of government to properly handle everyday situations better handled by individuals. But the more serious implication is that we, as Americans, prefer to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps in the tough times. That’s why Medicaid reform needs to focus on reforming dependents into independents. 

We want to provide the best services to our citizens at the lowest possible cost. To achieve this goal, we are weighing all of our options and keeping dialogue with the public open. The options being considered range from enrolling Medicaid recipients into private sector health plans, and to providing job training for those able-bodied on Medicaid to join the workforce. 

Some of the measures being considered can be agreed upon by many parties, such as limiting the ability of drug abusers to receive treatment. Another concept that I am speaking with decision makers on is plugging the Medicaid system into faith-based clinics. Limiting care to those who need it and have the intention of improving their situation will result in a lower cost to the taxpayer. 

West central Ohio is the best place in the world to live, work, and rear a family. We know how to get the job done and help our neighbors through difficult times. Reforming Medicaid is an opportunity to get the able-bodied back to work and producing again. 

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