NYSACRA

SURVEY PREDICTS PROGRAM CUTS

The Kaiser Commission o­n Medicaid and the Uninsured (KCMU) released results from a recent survey indicating that the $10 Billon subsidy that Congress authorized last spring, which raised the federal match of Medicaid funds (FMAP) by less than a national average of 3% was sufficient enough for many states to delay intended cuts in their Medicare programs.  In New York the FMAP was increased to 53% and provided over $1.5 Billion in additional State Medicaid funds. In addition to these findings, it is also suggested that upon expiration of the FMAP increases, those states who postpone cuts and freezes will be forced to make the necessary cuts previously planned.  The survey also shows that as the temporary fiscal relief expires in June of 2004, even though it was found that Medicaid spending has declined and the federal fiscal relief has lessened the rate of state share spending, States expect a substantial negative impact.  Very few States will have the necessary resources available to fill the gap created by the loss of the temporary funding.  The survey also found that in FY 2005 the state cost of Medicaid will increase and will be the highest it has been in many years.  It was shown that the highest impact of the expiration of fiscal funds will be those states with the highest federal matched funds and the lowest per capita income.  The survey also found that many states are applying Medicaid cost control in FY 2004.  The report is available at the Kaiser Family Foundation website, www.kff.org or by Clicking Here. (pdf 860kb)

Melanie Nathanson, Policy Analyst from the Center o­n Budget & Policy Priorities in Washington, will be presenting at the NYSACRA conference in April o­n this subject and more o­n the federal level that we need to keep an eye o­n!

COMMUNITY FRIENDS EXCELLENCE AWARD:  SUBMISSIONS

NYSACRA, at its 2004 Annual Conference, is presenting its Annual Excellence Award to Community Friends.  The award will be given to exemplary Community Friends from around the state.  They will be representatives of the friendship that is found as people with disabilities enter and participate in their communities.  As of today, we have received some extraordinary nominations that are examples of individuals who have worked unstintingly to welcome people with disabilities into their communities and neighborhoods.  The deadline for final submission was Wednesday, February 18, 2004.

REMINDER: CALL FOR 2004 ART EXHIBIT ENTRIES

If your agency is interested in participating in the Art Exhibit at this year’s Annual Conference, please send your submission request form (previously faxed) to Joe Macbeth at the NYSACRA offices. This year, we expect more artwork than ever and space is limited. Please make sure you get your reservation in by February 28, 2004.  If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call.

JOB POSTING

Due to recent promotions/expansion, United Cerebral Palsy of New York City is seeking two Residential Directors and a Director Day Treatment.  Energetic, dedicated and hardworking individuals who seek a fast-track career with a terrific organization are desired. Three years of management experience in the Human Services field and a valid NY State Driver's License are required.  A very competitive salary and excellent benefits package is available.  Fax resume with salary requirements to the HR Department at (212) 545-0434.