UNC-TV Healthwise Takes On the Medicaid Discussion

DURHAM--North Carolina is rich in the healthcare field - a mecca for medical training, the headquarters of pharmaceutical development and a hub for leaders and consumer advocates who care about health. Lawmakers in Raleigh and the nation's capitol are making decisions now that will impact health policy in the years to come. In our state's capitol, our legislators are currently wrestling with bills that, if passed, could change state policies regarding Medicaid eligibility, prescription drug coverage and funding.

North Carolina Now host Christine Rogers leads a panel of experts on Medicaid policy and its political ramifications LIVE Thursday, June 30, at 8 PM, in Healthwise: Healthcare Policy in NC and the U.S. Joining Rogers are Dr. William Atkinson, President and CEO of WakeMed Health and Hospitals; Wake County Representative Paul Stam; and Senator William Purcell, a retired physician.

Experts discuss the Medicaid issues that affect everyone in this state and answer some of the most critical questions about how today's Medicaid policy is being shaped to respond to America's future needs. Throughout the hour, viewers can call a toll-free number to ask questions on air about North Carolina's policies.

Issues discussed will include the definition of Medicaid, who is eligible and the differences between Medicaid ad Medicare; some of the potential changes in Medicaid policy in North Carolina as a result of the state budget process; and how hospitals handle Medicaid patients versus the uninsured and those with private health insurance. At several points during the program, panelists will answer viewer questions on air.

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