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If technology were not so prolific, there would be no reason to write this blog. My kids grew up using computers and cannot remember a time when technology was not a focal point of everyday life. From researching homework (or health policy) to balancing your checkbook and paying bills, from shopping for hard-to-find sizes to socializing with friends, the internet is our connection to people and resources near and far. It's fast, friendly and convenient.
Unfortunately, applying for public health coverage programs online is not the norm. Believe it or not, many states still do not have an online application for families to apply for coverage. Some of those that do merely provide an electronic version of a paper application that allows someone to type a response on a blank line. And then, it's not uncommon that the applicant is required to print the application or a signature page, then sign the form and use snail mail to get it to an office where an eligibility worker has to input the data. I know you must be shaking your head by now, but trust me, it's true!
One state in particular - Wisconsin - has made great gains in the use of technology for people to apply to a number of public programs, get information about their benefits and report changes. Wisconsin's ACCESS program is a great example of how technology can be used to simplify the process of applying for children's health coverage.
I recently had a Q & A session with Angela Dombrowicki from the Wisconsin Division of Health Care Access and Accountability about ACCESS. We were so excited we sent an e-postcard to all of our friends. You can check it out here. We'd love to hear about your state's innovations in technology.
Unfortunately, applying for public health coverage programs online is not the norm. Believe it or not, many states still do not have an online application for families to apply for coverage. Some of those that do merely provide an electronic version of a paper application that allows someone to type a response on a blank line. And then, it's not uncommon that the applicant is required to print the application or a signature page, then sign the form and use snail mail to get it to an office where an eligibility worker has to input the data. I know you must be shaking your head by now, but trust me, it's true!
One state in particular - Wisconsin - has made great gains in the use of technology for people to apply to a number of public programs, get information about their benefits and report changes. Wisconsin's ACCESS program is a great example of how technology can be used to simplify the process of applying for children's health coverage.
I recently had a Q & A session with Angela Dombrowicki from the Wisconsin Division of Health Care Access and Accountability about ACCESS. We were so excited we sent an e-postcard to all of our friends. You can check it out here. We'd love to hear about your state's innovations in technology.
On Wisconsin! This seems like a no brainer. Why don't other states have online enrollment?
I couldn't agree more online application systems are easier to access, easier to process, with fewer errors and lower management costs.
Ohio has successfully developed a public private partnership called The Ohio Benefit Bank which has already resulted in over $100 million in benefits accessed.
Pennsylvania has had an online application for public benefits since 2001 that includes health care (Medicaid and CHIP), Food Stamps, school meals, subsidized child care and LIHEAP. Families can renew their benefits using COMPASS as well. Further, there is a text-only view for community-based organizations that allows faster data entry and the tracking of application outcomes.