Appendix E:
Comments From the Adult Survey

The following are comments written on the back page of the surveys to the question:

• Please tell us if there is anything else you like or dislike
  about your Medicaid health plan.

The comments are grouped according to the health plan in which they are enrolled. They are also grouped according to the topic about which they are written (e.g., administrative issues, dental issues). The comments are presented as written except obvious spelling errors were corrected to make them easier to read. Some comments were split up into the appropriate topic area unless this would have changed the interpretation of the comment.

John Deere Health Plan

Multiple Issues/General Comments

• I know it is hard to do a lot of work for your clinics. I am suggesting that with or doctor¹s names we can see that there would be names of dentists and prescription (pharmacy) that are available for us. I've called different places and they keep saying no. Other than that this plan is very helpful for my son and I.

• Better family plans needed. I am dealing with a 7 year old with ADHD and there are tests that need to be done that Title 19 won¹t cover, but are needed to help my daughter with her condition. More information on what they cover for ADHD patients would be helpful. More understanding and helpful people on the Medicaid help line.

·       My dental coverage was either 1. Self-aid or 2. Through a private health insurance. I never attempted to obtain dental coverer age on Medicaid because so few providers accept it. I¹ve never had any difficulties with my Medicaid from my insurance. My biggest difficulties involved having my information updated by my DHS caseworkers and stemmed in part from the rapid turnover at DHS. My only complaint about the Medicaid program involves DHS and paper work.

·       It is very hard to find a doctor you want or that is convenient that accepts Title 19. Even harder to find dentists and chiropractors.

• Yes, very simple things Medicaid will not cover, in medicine, make a huge difference. Especially lately my family has just gone without some basic medicines because they can be bought over the counter. And while in most circumstances that is only reasonable, in others, we can't buy it and we don't get it period. Like worm medicine. Not something you want to delay. And others I don't recall. And sun glasses, tinted prescription eyeglasses. I would make payments on the extra cost. My eyes hurt, burn and water. I can't look up at people in the face while I¹m talking to them without shielding my face every which way when the sun is bright. And I drive a lot, from house to house doing house cleaning. It's hard. Thank you.

• I would appreciate knowing what if any chiropractors in Scott County that take Medicaid because I frequently suffer from my back and hips being out of place which makes it painful or uncomfortable to complete tasks. And also, I would like to know who else takes Medicaid that are dentists (orthodontists) besides community health care.

• I believe that in order to timely be effective, health insurance should fund preventive health care, especially the scientifically validated technique of transcendental meditation. This technique has been proven by over 50 scientific studies to reduce stress, the root cause of all disease. Recently the leading national medical association has granted a $12 million dollar grant to further fund scientific studies info the numerous health benefits of transcendental meditation. Just think how much money health insurance companies would save if they paid for participants to prevent disease rather than pay for people to poison themselves with synthetic drugs to treat the symptoms of diseases rather than the disease itself. Currently our health system fosters sickness and thrives off disease. It is time to revolutionize our whole world perspective and wake up to a deeper reality within our very own selves. Currently TM is available through national funding to Vets (VA hospital). It is overdue that people are able to participate in this sort of program on all levels of society. Prevention is the cure. You should reorganize the survey to be more practical. I had to make up my own answer boxes for most of the questions. Oh and by the way, most doctors don't really even care about you, as far as I can tell.

• Well in this day and age health care professionals say that obesity is a large problem. Some people can't lose weight naturally and it doesn't matter how much exercise they do they can't lose it. There are drugs that can help suppress your appetite so you don't have an urge. Medicaid will not pay for those drugs. They are extremely expensive. Especially for those on Medicaid that means that the people on Medicaid can't get help with obesity. Because if they had enough money for it they probably wouldn't be on Medicaid. Obesity is also genetic, so why can't Medicaid help us. It may save them money in the long run, because people who are overweight are depressed so therefore most of them take anti-depressants that Medicaid pays for. So if they help the obese get help to lose weight then they wouldn't need anti-depressants.

• I think Medicaid should cover smoking cessation classes or other ways to help people quit smoking. I also think they should have more help for weight loss too. I don't think they give enough choices for doctors for mental health either.

• More optometrists should accept the card. More dentists should accept the card.

• I can't wait to get my job and get off Title 19.

Eligibility and Administrative

·       I think Medicaid should be for anyone not just 0-18 or 65 or older. I'm a mother of two, work part time and my husband's work don't offer insurance. My husband and I don't get any health coverage. We both make little money so when we need to go to the doctor and need medicine we spend lots of money. Me, I have my birth control and Synthroid every month. That is $50 a month. That's a lot.

• I just don't understand how they judge whether you can get Title 19. I try and pick up hours to better myself and you'll cancel on me. I make very little money just enough to support myself and you will cover me. Why is this, I can never get ahead.

• The only thing is that the guidelines for how much income you can have. My husband makes good money but he's our only source of income. We barely make our bills but will probably be unable to continue with my Medicaid now that he has a new job, even though we cant afford to get insurance for me. He has epilepsy so is uninsurable and he goes without insurance. We pay about $200.00 per month to insure our children. It's very difficult not having insurance.

• I think the people on Medicaid without jobs, I think Medicaid should try to help the ones who need jobs but can't get one because they go to the doctor once every two weeks, because they are expecting a baby. No one will hire some one who is expecting.

• The only thing I believe is messed up is that they kick people off Title 19 because they're 18 and they don't have any other insurance. I believe you should help out people that don't have any insurance. Thanks.

• Make Medicaid easier for stay-at-home mothers and new mothers to get. Especially when not able to be covered by husband's health plan.

• Only thing about Medicaid is that you should give it to the babies more than a year. It is excellent for pregnant women and I thank you for providing me with one.

• I have epilepsy and if I have to go off this program I probably will die or have a lot of seizures. I want to know why my back, legs, and arms always hurt. I've got another 2 months on FIP, then what am I going to do? Help!

• More clarity on who can/can¹t see, hospitals can/can¹t visit. More info on time needed for referrals and how this process works.

• When I first started on Medicaid I was under the impression that they would cover up to 3 months but not all were covered. I am still paying on a medical bill from last year. I have also had bills come to me and have been bothered by people to collect money from Medicaid services after I was on Medicaid. I wish stuff like this wouldn¹t happen because it's a big mess for me.

• Why do we have to call the doctor before going to the ER? If you are sick you are sick, I'm pretty sure someone wouldn't want to go the ER if they weren't sick. Thank you.

• I know right now it's okay. I have in the past gotten lots of bills of thousands of dollars which should have been covered and was not.

• I keep getting bills from hospitals when I shouldn't be.

• Well, I think it's not fair that they stuck me with at least $1000 dollars or more in bills that should have been paid and I'm not too happy with any of it cause I have a 15-month-old son I have to take care of. And it's hard when I don't have money to do it because of those bills. Thanks.

• I often received my recertification papers the day they were due. I would then have to call and that was never a simple solution because reaching your caseworker isn't usually easy.

• I feel as if the cards need to be made smaller as well of hard plastic. The paper tears too easy.

Primary Care Providers

• Most Medicaid is HMO, which limits your doctors. When I moved to DM I had to get a different doctor and I have not yet found another doctor that I am comfortable with like I was with my previous doctor.

• Need more doctors on the program to choose from.

Specialists

• I answered this questionnaire about myself, but my son needs to see a specialist and I cannot find one accepting patients in my area with Medicaid. It's a real problem.

Prescription Medication

• Almost every time I try to get a prescription filled for a migraine medication, insurance will not pay for it. I suffer from many migraines, up to 5 a week sometimes. Also, this insurance does not like to pay for yeast infection pills, which are supposed to be used by women who have recurrent infections. I cannot afford to pay for these medications.

Chiropractic

• Right now the only problem I see is the following. I was going to go see a chiropractor about my sore back and shoulders. But before Title 19 would cover it, I would have to have an x-ray and I would have to pay for the x-ray, which I can't afford so I never did see a chiropractor and to date I still experience back and shoulder pain.

• I think it is hard to find a chiropractor that will take Medicaid. Is there a list for them?

Dental

• Muscatine has no dentist that will take Title 19 card.

• A few years ago I needed a tooth removed. My dentist sent me to an oral surgeon; the surgeon was here in Des Moines. Now I've needed to see the surgeon again for over a year now but would have to go to Iowa City, which due to transportation and money reasons I've not been able to make it.

• Everything is great but dental health plan sucks.

• I would like to see more variety for adult dental care.

• Just I can't go to any good dentists because my Medicaid can't afford it or I. I like to keep my teeth white and clean and no cavities.

• Need more dentist offices to accept Title 19 Medicaid program. Don't have time to call all over to find dentist clear on other side of town.

• I'm very grateful with the Medicaid but I do wish some of the dentist would accept it for dental care here in Iowa. Can someone find out why it is very limited for people of all ages here in Des Moines? Maybe you can send out a survey to some of the local dental offices. Because you either have Broadlawns, Des Moines Health Center, Iowa City Area College in Ankeny, Iowa. That's it, and House of Mercy is starting their own dental service for clients only and then later on it will be open to the public. You see some people need more then just cleaning and pulling out the teeth when just maybe the teeth can be saved not everybody can go to Iowa City or wait for hours at Broadlawns in awful pain.

• I really appreciate Medicaid. I am a mother of a 3 year old. I am a full time student and I work part time. So I don't have any insurance but Medicaid and it has saved me and my son. The only big complaint I really have I that Medicaid has very poor dental coverage, and no dentist to take Medicaid. Thank you.

Vision

• I feel that Medicaid is a good jump off and helping others to get on their feet to do on their own and is very helpful. The only thing is I wear contacts or eyeglasses and the eye place I have been going to for 11 years all of the sudden isn¹t taking my HMO no more and there really isn't that many eye care places that are good that take HMO.

Other Coverage Issues

• I have a 2-year-old son, sometimes I find it hard to get his immunizations. He is already 1 year behind because most doctors don't accept Title 19 for immunizations. Thank you for taking the time to ask us our opinions.

• I feel that prenatal care providers should be able to give more than one ultrasound for a patient who is having a regular pregnancy. Because they take it too early to tell what sex it is.

Positive Comments

• I believe that the Medicaid health care policies are very great for the medical providers that deal with Medicaid. I don't believe anything should be changed or rearranged in any shape or form. I believe it should stay the same.

• I think it's real good. Thank you.

• I am off Medicaid now as I am working full time and I still have John Deere Choice. The Medicaid version of this is much better. I have no dental/chiropractic/eye care.

• As I have shown in all the positive answers I have responded to, I am very happy with my medical coverage. The doctor I have chosen is excellent. I never wait in the office and I¹m always treated with respect.

• First of all for my daughter it has been fabulous. 2^nd of all my 1^st appointment is December 4^th for physical routine heart and 1^st time hands checked for carpal tunnel. Other than that, it's been good. Thank you. I was never on medical till after I had my daughter. They signed me up afterwards. I did not know I was applicable for it. Thanks again.

• My 2 year old sees the Dr. more than I do. I would like to keep my plan with John Deere Medicaid for my son. He has ear problems.

• We have been very pleased with our Medicaid experience, both with the health plan as well as one worker receiving our cards, etc. It acts as our secondary insurance and has been such a relief. As a diabetic, the medications, testing supplies, and general care expenses are never ending. There have been times prior to Medicaid where I was forced to go without because I did not even have enough money to cover my co-pays. It has truly been a blessing. Any time I've had questions or problems the answers have been easy to find and our worker is always pleasant and friendly. Thank you.

• I have not had any serious health problems and have been satisfied with my health care providers in general.

• My sincere thanks to Dr. B. and Dr. M. and for their outstanding service and respect while being treated. I am extremely satisfied with what they have done for me. They are both outstanding medical providers.

• I think that Medicaid takes care of me very well.

• Even with the rude people, I really do appreciate this coverage. So for what it it's worth, thank you.

• I am no longer covered by Medicaid, for my pregnancy is over. It was a wonderful help to me to be covered because I could have never paid the bills. Thank you.

The Survey

• If you want more people to fill out your survey you should shorten it up.

 

Iowa Health Solutions

Multiple Issues/General Comments

• I hate not having maneuverability, having to get permission for a 2^nd opinion and then use that doctor's choice. I hate to go to a doctor jut to get a referral. The choice of doctors is limited and if my doctor is unavailable I have few choices: to wait to go to another doctor and pay, or to go to the ER and pay. I had a prescription medicine stolen (with my purse) and I couldn't get a refill until the refill date. It was a medicine I need daily. My doctor (specialist) called the pharmacy to explain but the pharmacy said I could only refill if I had cash. My doctor had to contact the drug company for samples, which took over a week. By the time I received them I was quite ill. I love my specialist but my regular medical doctor is another story. I often don't get medical care when I need it because I have such horrible experiences there. Every medical complaint I have is blamed on my medical condition yet my specialist says its not related. My specialist cant order tests because he can only give me care related to his specialty. I wait to go see my primary care physician until the discomfort is worse than the dread of the visit.

• I have to go to the regular doctor to get okayed to go to my orthopedic doctor. Sometimes I can go awhile before returning to specialist and when I need to see him I have to go to the regular doctor and get a referral. Been seeing doctor specialist for a while. I feel it ties up doctor's time he could be spending on someone who really needs to be seen. Same goes for allergy shots she has to see the doctor because of the insurance that I have stipulates that she sees the doctor. I feel if she isn't having problems then she could pass on seeing him. Another problem is with certain meds they upset my stomach and I have to try 2 or 3 different meds before I can get the one that my doctor and I know will work. Hope you can read this. Sorry so sloppy.

• Was hard to find a dentist who accepts Medicaid. Wish I could get my birth control bills partially paid for.

• I presently have medical bills that have gone into collection agency. I have paid a few medical bills. I have bills that have never been paid while I was on Title 19. My children have not seen a dentist in 6 years because it's too hard to get a dentist who will see you on Saturday. I have been refused medication because they say my medication is too expensive. I¹m on Plaquenil and Celebrex. So they limit my dosage. I also use albuterol inhaler, Serevent. I take birth controls to control my bleeding, I'm anemic. They will not give me enough to last 2 months.

• I tend to prefer alternative health solutions such as massage therapy which is not covered by my insurance. I am highly satisfied with my health insurance. I just graduated college and got a good job so I probably won't be eligible for insurance any more which worries me because I've been covered with Title 19 my entire life. I can't imagine not having access to doctors and dentists when I need them. I have never had to worry about it before.

• Reimburse for x-rays done by chiropractors. Cover at home births attended by ob/gyn, CNM, family practice physicians, etc. Many of the questions could not be answered by me since I have not used any providers from my IHS plan. I do receive dental care every 6 months. I am seen regular in the clinic at Palmer College of Chiropractic and have excellent health and nutrition.

• I would rather be able to go to the dentist without wasting my doctor's time getting a referral. I think I'm old enough to know when I need to go. It would also be nice if more eye doctors accepted Medicaid. As it is, I don't have a choice in doctors, there is only one.

• There should always be a doctor, dentist, hospital, foot doctor, any of this stuff that takes a Title 19 patient or a new patient in any town that you are at either if you are new or not.

• Well I need to get a thing made for my bottom teeth so they straighten up. They are crooked and my dentist said that he would not recommend me to another doctor to get it done. It looks bad. So I think my plan should cover that so I can get it done. Even if I have to pay a co-pay. I also wish that my plan would cover the charge of me getting a liposuction. I feel gross and I need to get rid of all my stretch marks on my stomach. I don't feel wanted by anyone because I have them. I also feel down and depressed because of it.

• Just tired of the belief of a Medicaid recipient. Some people believe that people using Medicaid wish to do so, and have no desire to change it. Some do use the system. Most only need help to become self-sufficient. We expect only the same health care of anyone else, Medicaid recipient or otherwise. It took me 1/2 years to find a dentist closer than Iowa City to see my daughter. Now, I've found one 1/2; hour from my home, and can't find an orthodontist to treat her and use preventative. Her teeth hurt her. I can understand if it was for cosmetics, but not this.

• I would rather be able to go to the dentist without wasting my doctor's time getting a referral. I think I'm old enough to know when I need to go. It would also be nice if more eye doctors accepted Medicaid. As it is, I don¹t have a choice in doctors, there is only one.

• Maybe you guys should drop the HMO and start giving us insurance with a POS (point of service) primary care physician.

Eligibility and Administrative

• I need Medicaid because my family cannot afford dentures or medical to get my prescription medicine filled to get rid of my chronic ear infection. Plus I need to be seen by a back doctor. I got canceled off Medicaid because of my boyfriends and my income is too high. But yet we have 4 children living with us from 3 months to 16 years. So we don¹t really have money for anything. If you could possibly help me and my family I'd really like that. Thank you very much.

• My younger brother is covered under my Medicaid insurance. My mom wanted to change his doctor (she is the guardian of him). The person she talked to said she couldn't do that. I would have to.

• I'm being taken off Medicaid and so is my daughter. I have coverage also through my private insurance that I have through Wal-Mart, but I'm being taken off because I make too much. How can $7.35, $1.65 below poverty level, be too much? I'm not a deadbeat, I'm a single mother who can't find a better paying job due to this dying economy in this town of Clinton.

• My family and I are in the US more than one year and we came here as refugees, so we don't know good English and do not have a good job also and our family with too low income. Recently my Medicaid program was finished and soon my wife's coverage also will be canceled. It is difficult to take care of me and my family's health without Medicaid. I suggest that for those refugees that have limited income (low income) should be provided with Medicaid much longer than now.

• I have tried to switch from an HMO to Medicaid and they keep telling me they change if when I call, but I'm still on the HMO. Overall though I am well taken care of.

• Yes I would like to have the same plan as my children. I don't know why mine was changed but it is different and I would like for them to change it back because my doctors office has to call to make sure that is will be ok for me to be seen.

• It is very upsetting when I get medical bills in the mail when I know it should have been paid by Medicaid. I then report I have Medicaid, and have been on it for over 5 years and they call Medicaid people and they say I was not on Medicaid when I know I've always been on it. Then they send the bill to collection services, and I receive bill from them. I refuse to pay the bill because not only was I on Medicaid, but if for some reason Medicaid wasn't going to pay it I should have been told this from the doctor's office the day I was seen.

• I think if you got a problem with them they should help you try to work it out so that you don't have back payment that you have to pay out. Thank you.

• I went to the emergency room to get treated for suicidal thoughts, and my Medicaid didn't pay for the visit to the ER. So now I'm stuck with a bill that I can't pay. All because I wanted to go to the ER and get help.

• Iowa Health Solutions is not covered out of state. I was in the hospital last month in the emergency room and my insurance did not cover this or the medication I was prescribed.

• I would like to know why I got taken off of this plan. When I filled out all of the papers I was sent to fill out and I know I don't have any health care at all which I really need. I ended up in the hospital in October with a fever of 102.2 and I had an infection and I had to stay in the hospital for 2 days. Then I had to have a check up with my regular doctor and I had to get meds, but luckily they gave me samples of the meds. Now I have to pay a hospital bill of $4,375.50. And that is not including my check ups at my doctor's office and I have no clue how I am going to pay for that. I am looking for a job right now. I'm hoping that I will get some help back to help me pay those bills.

• Getting duplicate paper work. It is very confusing with all of the deadlines.

• #1. When I enrolled or asked for help it was for my daughter, but that was only after I filled an application out for that school insurance paper that was suppose to be free from a certain amount to a certain amount. The next thing I know I get a letter saying they refused us to DHS for medical needs. And when I go fill out applications for just medical, the worker said they would pay for medical bills for 3 months before. So I didn't think anything of it until I had gotten a couple of bills from Broadlawns. Then around July 2000 I had to go the emergency room because I could not breathe, walk normal. Found out I had pneumonia. They put me in the hospital because I had it real bad. Evidently if I am in the hospital then I am not doing real good huh? But because no insurance to help me my doctor thought it best for my income that I should not stay so I got out 2 days later. Still feeling like crap, but not being able to not afford it. What else, but go and get help from the state for medical. So I did, and when is filled out all papers for and myself at the same time, the worker said then that they would pay for any medical bills that we had required of that year back to January, February, March, April, May, June, July, and August of 2000. Because there was some computer or human error my daughter was cut off in one month, which the lady didn't know why. So when I applied and she found errors done that shouldn't have been it all leads up to why am I still getting bills, more less from a collection agency that those bills still haven't been paid, when they should be. I still get a bill from my doctor that I have seen for 10 years, 9 years with my daughter from being in the hospital July 2000?

• I like to know about the bills and what gets paid. Need to get info on a dentist I can go to with my insurance. Thank you.

• I like the fact that Medicaid helps people that need the extra help. I don't like that Medicaid is color coded and certain places only take green or blue medical cards. And places that are willing to help any body that may not have everything you need only takes the pink medical card.

• There should always be a doctor, dentist, hospital, foot doctor, any of this stuff that takes a Title 19 patient or a new patient in any town that you are at either if you are new or not.

• Whylie Eye care never resubmitted my Title 19 for my son's glasses. I was off Title 19 for a short time but I got back on and received retroactive cards. I took the card for the month I purchased glasses for my sons and asked them to resubmit and they refused. I was out $70.00 recently I was told to get a heart echo and I told my physician that that had to be set up and certain measurements had to be taken. I was seen at Metropolitan (used to be Des Moines General). I told the receptionist what measurements had to be taken and sent on to Iowa City in care of the genetics clinic. I also told the technician repeatedly Iowa City did not receive those measurements.

• I enrolled in Medicaid due to an unexpected pregnancy. I had to put off finishing college so my father's insurance dropped me. My income wouldn't have covered most private insurance premiums. I was pleased with the swiftness of the paper work. I was able to receive prenatal care right away. I was able to choose the nurse-midwife I wanted, who was wonderful! She and her staff were very courteous and helpful and never treated me any different just because I was state aid. I was a little intimidated by my social worker, she makes me nervous.

Primary Care Providers

• The only doctor I ever saw was for obstetrics. I never saw a general practitioner. I would consider the midwife who delivered my son, my personal doctor, nurse for gynecological care.

• Don't put just a certain doctor that you have to see.

• Your doctor on the list. But when you call to set up an appointment you just get one of the doctors that is open. So you go to the doctor that is open and Title 19 don't cover it.

• There should always be a doctor, dentist, hospital, foot doctor, any of this stuff that takes a Title 19 patient or a new patient in any town that you are at either if you are new or not.

Prescriptions

• Some drugs prescribed by my doctor are not covered my Medicaid. I have allergy problems and they won't prescribe non-drowsy allergy medications. The only medications covered are ineffective and make me too tired to function.

Dental

• I do find it hard to find and get good dental care here in Davenport. CHC has a 3-year waiting list. Thank you.

• Regarding questions #45-49, I have not tried to get a dentist here in Ames because I'm always told they are not accepting new patients. The last time I visited a dentist was in 1998, there in Iowa City at the Dental College. I was grateful even to pay the $50.00. I did not know anything about Iowa City. I had four teeth extracted. Thank you. I hope I've been of some help in your research.

• Anyway to get more dentists to accept Title 19 patients would be greatly appreciated. I think it's horrendous that people in my town need to drive 2+ hours to Iowa City for normal dental check ups and procedures. We have just as much entitlement to good dental care as any private insurance holder!

• I think that something should be done with the dental issues. I am unable to find a dentist or an oral surgeon that will take new Title 19 patients. I've heard of a dentist in Carroll, Iowa and Iowa City that will take new patients but that's too far to drive just to get dental care, especially if you have really bad teeth and need to have work done. That 1 visit isn't enough. It's too expensive to drive that far every month or week.

• I don't like the problem with dentists not accepting new Title 19 patients.

• I really wish I could find a dentist in the Muscatine county area. I haven't had a check up or cleaning in 2-3 years, and it's up to that time I had my teeth cleaned every 6 months like normal. I need to find a local dentist because my 9-year-old daughter's teeth are very crooked and awkward. She will need to have teeth pulled and braces put on, within the next 3-5 years or else she will have great problems with her teeth.

• We need a dentist in Muscatine that accepts Medicaid. I can't travel far and my teeth are falling apart! Other than that Medicaid is a little better than my private insurance I use to have.

Vision

• My eyes have digressed and I can't get another pair of glasses for over 1 year. I don't think that is right.

Other Coverage Issues

• Well I need to get a thing made for my bottom teeth so they straighten up. They are crooked and my dentist said that he would not recommend me to another doctor to get it done. It looks bad. So I think my plan should cover that so I can get it done. Even if I have to pay a co pay. I also wish that my plan would cover the charge of me getting a liposuction. I feel gross and I need to get rid of all my stretch marks on my stomach. I don't feel wanted by anyone because I have them. I also feel down and depressed because of it.

• I would like to tell you that when women are pregnant they like to have more than 1 ultrasound. I know they cost a lot but 2 at the most would be really great. A lot more people would appreciate it because you guys are a lot better than private health insurance except in that place. When I was pregnant my best friend had her dad's health insurance from his work and got a lot more pictures here. I was on Title 19 and I only got to have 2, the 2^nd one was b/c. I was 2 weeks/centimeters bigger so they were worried but it really hurt me cause I mean she got like around 16-20 pictures. I got 9 pictures at 2 different times. She went in probably around 4-5 times. Hopefully you guys will really consider this letter. Thanks for your time. I really appreciate your guys/girls service to me and my family.

Discrimination

• Just tired of the belief of a Medicaid recipient. Some people believe that people using Medicaid wish to do so, and have no desire to change it. Some do use the system. Most only need help to become self-sufficient. We expect only the same health care of anyone else, Medicaid recipient or otherwise. It took me1 1/2years to find a dentist closer than Iowa City to see my daughter. Now, I've found one 1/2 hour from my home, and can't find an orthodontist to treat her and use preventative. Her teeth hurt her. I can understand if it was for cosmetics, but not this.

Positive Comments

• I love my health plan. I could never afford my medical bills for my asthma and depression. I have no complaints of my medical plan I have right now.

• I am a single working mother of 1. I had found the Medicaid program very beneficial to us. I would not be able to afford private health insurance. I am very grateful that your service requires the minimum amount of time necessary from myself. Thank you.

• I am not financially capable of carrying health, dental or vision insurance for my daughter or myself. I appreciate how available this coverage is. I also enjoy what a wide variety my coverage takes care of.

• Don't know of anything at this time.

• I am grateful that Medicaid provides useful resources and guaranteed health coverage.

• I have been on Medicaid for a year and a half and I haven't had hardly any problems with them. If it wasn't for Medicaid I would be in debt with medical bills especially after I had my first child. I want to give my greatest thanks to whomever made this program possible.

• I think all and all it's a good thing. I wish I could get my own medical insurance but that's just not possible now.

• I am very satisfied with the way Iowa City accepts Title 19 and HMO patients and will treat them fairly and do what needs to be done.

• I'm very satisfied with my health care but I've never had anything else so I'm glad to have insurance at all. Thank you for everything.

• I don't have insurance offered at my job and I have migraine medicine that I have to take on a permanent basis. I appreciate having this healthcare.

• I'm just glad there is health care out there for people like me who are full time college students and full time parents who are trying to get their lives together. Thanks.

• Medicaid works very well. I see no difference between other insurances except you can cover more with other insurances. However, I don¹t need much more coverage, myself. I am very thankful for the Medicaid program. It has given me a chance to better myself, while staying healthy. Thank you Medicaid, and thanks for your interest with my enrollment in Medicaid. Have a good day and good luck with your survey.

• We need a dentist in Muscatine that accepts Medicaid. I can¹t travel far and my teeth are falling apart! Other than that Medicaid is a little better than my private insurance I used to have.

• I enrolled in Medicaid due to an unexpected pregnancy. I had to put off finishing college so my father's insurance dropped me. My income wouldn't have covered most private insurance premiums. I was pleased with the swiftness of the paper work. I was able to receive prenatal care right away. I was able to choose the nurse-midwife I wanted, who was wonderful! She and her staff were very courteous and helpful and never treated me any different just because I was state aid. I was a little intimidated by my social worker, she makes me nervous.

• I would like to tell you that when women are pregnant they like to have more than 1 ultrasound. I know they cost a lot but 2 at the most would be really great. A lot more people would appreciate it because you guys are a lot better than private health insurance except in that place. When I was pregnant my best friend had her dad's health insurance from his work and got a lot more pictures here. I was on Title 19 and I only got to have 2, the 2^nd one was b/c. I was 2 weeks/centimeters bigger so they were worried but it really hurt me cause I mean she got like around 16-20 pictures. I got 9 pictures at 2 different times. She went in probably around 4-5 times. Hopefully you guys will really consider this letter. Thanks for your time. I really appreciate your guys/girls service to me and my family.

The Survey

• I apologize for not getting this taken care of before now. I've been busy with school.

Coventry Health Care

Eligibility

• I have severe headaches that keep me from doing things that I would enjoy doing. I want to know why my head hurts so severe. Right at this present time I have no insurance. My son is Dyslexic, Epileptic, ADHD, which is difficult because he cannot go on husbands insurances make it difficult to get meds for him and being pre existing for even myself to get on my husbands insurance. I think that HMO's should not have as much control of what the doctor thinks is best for his patients.

Administrative

• I didn't think it's necessary to have to show your card every month.

• I would like to get switched to the John Deere Medicaid (HMO). I was told I was eligible for it. I have a hard time getting my chiropractor help. Thank you. I would also like my son changed too. Any questions call 123-456-7890.

• The only comment I have is that when billing people at the doctor's offices bill you for not having a Medicaid card. That person shouldn't be harassed by insurance people to pay that bill when you can't. They think money grows on trees.

Specialists

• I use Title 19 for my child. She has several congenital eye conditions. For this reason I must take her to see a specialist the biggest problem I have with Coventry health care or Title 19. Is there a must have authorization from my child's primary care doctor. My child has been seeing the eye specialist for almost 2 years and will be seeing this specialist for at least 3-6 more years. I am and have been trying to make Title 19 understand this and it not necessary to continue to get approval to see the specialist. I will stop seeing the specialist when I'm told that my child no longer needs his care.

Chiropractic

• I would like to get switched to the John Deere Medicaid (HMO). I was told I was eligible for it. I have a hard time getting my chiropractor help. Thank you. I would also like my son changed too. Any questions call 123-456-7890.

Positive Comments

• I'm so grateful for Medicaid and I hope other recipients treat this insurance with the same respect. Health care providers have encountered have always put my health needs first and foremost regardless of the type of insurance I have. Thank you for the concerns Medicaid recipients may encounter.

• I've been very happy with my health plan since being forced to go on Medicaid. I now can see a doctor when needed and my daughter gets great care.

MediPASS

Multiple Issues/General Comments

• Medicaid is extremely helpful. I had an unexpected pregnancy and without Medicaid probably wouldn't have got great care and probably wouldn't have had a healthy baby and would have been in debt for many years. You should be proud of this program. The only problem I had is after my baby was born and was covered for 60 days and DHS said you could apply for 6 more months of coverage, but I didn't get any information from them like I asked for. We would have qualified because we were not a family of 3 but it's too late. My question is: is there any way you can get coverage if you¹re not pregnant and what happens when my sons run out in 2 years. How do you apply for more? If there is any information you can send me I'd appreciate it. Thanks. This program is well managed and extremely helpful. Thanks for everything.

• What I like about Medicaid is I don't have to pay that much for my medicine or any for my child's. What I dislike about Medicaid, it doesn't cover most doctors my child and I see. I have also had problems with my Medicaid card because they also put my other insurance on my Medicaid that I'm no longer on anymore.

• I think that sometimes it is hard to understand the information and sometimes I don't quite understand what is covered by Medicaid. I also feel like it is very hard to find a dentist that accepts Title 19 and if you do you have to wait at least 2 months for an appointment.

• It's really hard to come up with co-payment when you are on a fixed income. It's hard to find a dentist to accept people with title 19. They say they don't get their money fast enough.

 

• I really like it that the cost of the prescriptions are really cheap and the only part that I find really difficult sometimes is having to get approval every time I go to the University Hospital. I have hepatitis c and a c-5 herniated disc in my neck. I will be having surgery on my neck on November 8^th. Then in December I am having a liver biopsy. I have high cholesterol which I take Lipitor for. I also have degenerative arthritis I take Flexeril and Darvon for that then on top of all that I've had a complete UCL on my left knee ( I have 2 screws in my knee). Now I have to wear a brace on my leg constantly. I also have depression. They have me on Zoloft and a pill called clonazepam for anxiety but it will be short term. I was on Lorazapam and the psychiatrist changed it. Then I also have acid reflux disease. I take Prilosec for that. I wish once the regular doctor sent me to the specialist that when I got there I wouldn't keep getting told I need to be sure to get prior authorization?

• We need more dentists for adults and children in this town (SE Iowa) who will accept MediPASS or HMO. I am happy with my current Dr. and pharmacy. I am satisfied with MediPASS coverage except for access to dental and sometimes I am so broke the co pay for prescriptions can be difficult.

• Went to hospital in ambulance, having problems with medicines, paying for follow up, Dr. saying not usual doctor. Lots of bills due to doctor. I wanted not being on MediPASS. I called numerous times from dr office I wish to be seen at. Problems with getting Vioxx for my knees. Always need to be okayed by dr for MediPASS to pay. They okayed it once. You'd think that would be enough.

• Medicaid is a good plan. However, I encountered a few frustrations with filling prescriptions. My son and I were both denied for our allergy meds. I ended up paying cash ($50/mo) for my sons and never filling mine. Now that I am a medical assistant I am rather annoyed that any insurance company can 2^nd guess doctors knowledge by denying coverage. However, Medicaid was wonderful while I was in college. My son and I would have been in serious trouble without health care coverage. Also, there are no oral surgeons who would take my plan. I couldn't drive to Iowa City, so I had to borrow $1500.00 to get my wisdom teeth out. I did have my dentist take one out, but she used Novocain only. I had to get an oral surgeon to finish because it hurt worse than anything I have ever lived through. So I had attempted to use my Medicaid for this service.

• First is pay for dentist visits locally and second make it so every American has this same health care plan, it would be easier and cheaper in the long run for all of us Americans. Thank you for letting me voice my opinion

• One of the biggest problems I have had is with eye coverage for myself and my child. My child needs eyewear almost every year and they cover only hideous embarrassing frames and worse yet. My child has very very thick lenses, and the insurance will not cover the thin, light lenses, or even let me pay the difference. The thin lenses are actually safer if broken. Like the Lenscrafter brand. The lenses are so thick also, they pop out of the frame. They won't cover contacts, which would actually be cheaper than glasses. I think they need to reconsider their eye policies. Also, there are certain things not covered that should be. Such as TMJ (cracked jaw), I wanted to have my jaw problem looked at and have something made to wear at night so my jaw wouldn't slip, but they say it is not covered and I suffer a lot with it. How can they say certain health problems are covered and others are not?

• At this moment I'm pregnant with my 4^th child. Medicaid doesn't cover abortions and with my birth control after my 2^nd child I became very over weight and now being pregnant it's putting too much strain on my body. I¹ve visited a doctor, mentally and the person that I was going there because of told me I couldn't go anymore. But back to my pregnancy I am having a lot of back problems so I hope Medicaid cover maternity chiropractor that can help with my pain and my weight. The doctor and dental offices are on another side of town and I have to take a 1- hour bus ride to them and with time and kids. I tried to take my baby to a closer clinic and waited over an hour in the waiting room and left and that was for her shots. Thanks for the survey if my answers seem confusing the way the questions were was hard to pick up on, I would have rather did them in person or over the phone.

• Should be treated better in the emergency room when you got there and when your asthma is out of control, should go to a room in a hurry. Cause you don't play with asthma and you can die with it. Because I have seen friends of mine die. And they are not here 'cause they didn't get the treatment from the emergency room. I wish this can be changed and you can't get away from asthma. You live with it and take a lot of medicine.

• I'm ADHD.

Eligibility/Administrative

• What I don't like about Medicaid is I have been on Medicaid for a little over a year and every time I tried to work all I heard was you are going to lose your Medicaid. I am a single parent my little boy has good insurance so he is taken care of. I have a muscle disease, I work and try but I get run down because it is hard on me and it is a awful feeling hanging over your head that you can lose your medical card when you have health problems.

• I wish that Medicaid would cover women even when they weren't pregnant. A lot of people cannot afford private insurance and they go without insurance so what do they do when they get sick?

• I feel that if someone like myself would prefer to have Medicaid in case of accident or illness they should be able to get it. When that person chooses not to get child support from their baby's father because he gives them money to live and is already supporting his child although he is not living with them. This goes for the food stamp program also.

• My family got disenrolled from Medicaid due to both my husband and I are both working. But our income is just $200.00 over the limit of receiving Medicaid. Therefore my family has no medical coverage now. I wish Medicaid had a program would assist low-income families who are not qualified for Medicaid, but still receive some kind of assistance. Maybe on a co-paid or based on income level.

• I take Dilantin for a seizure disorder. I have 2 children ADHD that take medicine. I have no problem being on Medicaid. I do have one when I got a child on one plan and another on something different. And I called and give all information they need to change it and they still don't change it after 3 or 4 phone calls to them. And what would really help me out is if you went by your doctor bills and other meds. Then your income just to get on the program, I have to work almost two jobs to keep me and my family healthy, just to medical and drug store bills.

• I have only had two major problems with Medicaid. The first one was my worker wouldn't call me back. Even when I left a message on her answering machine and told her my son needed medicine and it was important that he get it and the pharmacy couldn't find record of my coverage. She didn't call. But my biggest problem is that they say I make too much money for any assistance. I don't see how I can be making too much money when my rent is more than x% of my income, and leaves me with only a couple hundred for all my other bills and to feed and clothe myself and my son.

• They seem to wait till the very last minute to pay the bill. I had a baby in March and Medicaid still has not paid all of their share.

• You should list some doctors from which you may choose from if you would like to switch doctors.

• Went to hospital in ambulance, having problems with medicines, paying for follow up, Dr. saying not usual doctor. Lots of bills due to doctor I wanted not being on MediPASS. I called numerous times from dr office I wish to be seen at. Problems with getting Vioxx for my knees. Always need to be okayed by dr for MediPASS to pay. They okayed it once. You¹d think that would be enough.

• We get bills a lot from St. Luke¹s Hospital for my husband, my son and myself.  If you could take care of those I would appreciate it.

• When 8 years old and received a medical card our regular family doctor was not on the list of available doctors. Although he accepted Medicare patients after request for him it was okayed. Since being on mothers insurance which she was required to do, they were so slow paying their part that it held up Medicare payment. My dr was nice enough to understand and did keep seeing me when necessary. Needing to find a new dentist. I live with my grandmother. She has appreciated the card for me. I am a senior this year. I have lived with her for ten years.

• When I had questions, the people I talked to were rude and were not helpful when it came to customer service. They made me feel like I was stupid and they didn¹t offer me any help.

• I was very scared and put my life at risk when I had a blood clot in my arm while I was away (out of state on business) because they would not take my medical coverage.

• When I first signed up for this they told me they take care of all hospital bills up to three months before. I had one a month before I signed up, thinking they then paid it and is now in the collection service. I went to the office and showed them and they tell me there's nothing they can do about it. So I don't see the point in lying about this insurance. You need to tell the truth to help make every body lives a little easier and not try to trick people.

• They don't pay my doctor bills so I don't get to see my doctor till they are paid. It's not my responsibility to pay doctors bill. I feel they do a poor job. I rather have something else.

• There is one thing! The last couple of times me and my family have gone to the doctor they say that we owe them money. I was just wondering why I get the bills for doctor visits when we have Title 19. If there is any way you can let me know please tell me. As of right now, that is the only questions I can think of.

• I called to have the health care provider changed on my son's card and was told it would be changed. It wasn't. I called again and was told again that it would be changed on the November card. Again, it wasn't.

• The worker for O'Brien County is not a very good people person. She is sometimes rude and will not listen when problems arise. She doesn't have good phone manners and is very short with you on the phone and in writing.

• Not the Medicaid, I haven't had problems with that, my problems have all been with my worker. He doesn't return phone calls and has not changed my name yet even though I've been trying to get it done for 6 months now.

• I was extremely satisfied with my plan and coverage. I was unsatisfied with the worker at the Warren County Department of Human Services. She made me feel terrible for being on Title 19. I hated dealing with her and dreaded each time I needed to.  My worker was rude and downright mean.

• I think Medicaid should pay more of doctor bills, because I'm on a limited budget and can't afford to pay the extra I have to pay so it has ruined my credit and there is no way I can fix the problem now. My health is getting worse and the stress of the bills I have made it even worse.

• I take Dilantin for a seizure disorder. I have 2 children ADHD that take medicine. I have no problem being on Medicaid. I do have one when I got a child on one plan and another on something different. And I called and give all information they need to change it and they still don¹t change it after 3 or 4 phone calls to them. And what would really help me out is if you went by your doctor bills and other meds. Then your income just to get on the program, I have to work almost two jobs to keep me and my family healthy, just to medical and drug store bills.

• Some medicines aren't covered, again one of my son¹s immunizations was not covered. Difficult paper work, otherwise ok.

• I have no complaints about the care my wife and new son received while on Medicaid. I do, however, have a problem with the way the Department of Human Services office in Oskaloosa, Iowa operates and treats the people seeking health aid. Obviously, several forms need to be filled out, and documentation of income needs to be obtained by the DHS to determine eligibility for services. A problem arises when the office hours are from 9am to 4:30 pm and my wife and I are in school or are working through that time. They should be open earlier or a little later. The biggest complaint I have with the DHS is the disrespectful way they treated my wife in regard to some forms she needed to complete. As previously stated we both have a problem making it to the office during hours. When my wife couldn't get off work 30 minutes early to bring a form in, we were harassed over the phone by a social worker and were told our benefits could be cancelled or not renewed by our gross negligence and inability to understand what day of the week it was. Her (the social worker) threat caused us to bring the paper work regardless of our other responsibilities and plans to advance ourselves in life. The second encounter over the phone with the DHS occurred in March. My wife received a call from the same person, this time she had a problem with the pay stubs my wife had given her. She didn¹t understand that in February my wife only received one pay check because she gets paid bi weekly and received a pay check at the end of Jan and in the beginning of March. No time was left unaccounted for in the span she requested. Still, the DHS worker would not relent in her inquisition of my wife, eventually reducing her to tears because of the inconsideration and stupidity of the social worker.

• I have only had two major problems with Medicaid. The first one was my worker wouldn't call me back. Even when I left a message on her answering machine and told her my son needed medicine and it was important that he get it and the pharmacy couldn't find record of my coverage. She didn't call. But my biggest problem is that they say I make too much money for any assistance. I don't see how I can be making too much money when my rent is more than x% of my income, and leaves me with only a couple hundred for all my other bills and to feed and clothe myself and my son.

Primary Care Providers

• I have a very tough time getting in to see our family doctor. She is always too busy. She is continually picking up more pregnant women, which means after they have their baby there will be even more people that need to see her. I know she takes Medicaid patients, I believe it would be helpful if she was taken off your list or else at least make it known she is full. Her name is Š.

• I wish there was a # you could call and check on your potential doctors reputation. It would make me feel more secure in making a choice.

• I cannot change my doctor if I'm having a problem. I have to wait until you say I can.

• I don't agree with one thing. When you have to enroll to a doctor away from your hometown because the clinic in your town closes and then reopens, what happens if you cant get to the clinic away from home because of the weather. I have to drive at least 20 miles there and back just to get a shot. I can see if the clinic closes and reopens you would want someplace that you can rely on, but if it is open, I rather go there to get a shot than have to drive 20 miles for a Depo-provera shot only. I like the fact that my daughter (2 year old) can go to the same doctor for any medical reason, as she has since she was born. I want the doctor to my history and my daughter's but the drive can be a nuisance. At least the medical plan lets you choose the doctor, that way he or she knows your medical history. I have not had a big problem with it, and appreciate the medical plans, Title 19, without it I don't know how I would pay for doctor's bills. Thank you much.

Prescriptions

• Could not get the best prescription for my stomach condition except for a short time and then it was not approved even though my doctor prescribed it. I had to switch to a different medication that doesn't work as well.

• I have been taking some meds not covered by Title 19. One of them is really costly. I really can't afford. So I pay the least amount possible. Skipping some. I'm overweight, trying to lose weight to help my hurt back. I just wish that I didn't have to worry every time I get a prescription if it's covered or not.

• Some medicines aren't covered, again one of my sons immunizations was not covered. Difficult paper work, otherwise ok.

• I would like Medicaid to cover such things as Zyban for quitting smoking and some sort of weight loss plan. They do not cover these things, and there are many people out there that would benefit from this. Myself included

 

Chiropractic

• I completely forgot about my chiropractor doctor, which I see often on and off during the year, is answering this form. My chiropractor doctor works on my back since I have a curve of the spine. I usually see him 2 times a month or 8 months a year.

• The only problem I have is the limit that Medicaid covers chiropractic care, it is only 1 time a month and I usually need to go more. I can't afford to pay for the visits myself.

Dental

• Trying to get dentists in our town who will accept Title 19. Because I don't have a car to get to any dentists out of town.

• Lots of problems with dental secretaries not knowing whom to bill for services for the family children.

• The reason I placed fair for how would I rate my overall dental health is because they hit a nerve in two of my teeth to place fillings in they hit a nerve.

• Provide a list of dentists that take Medicaid.

• The only main very big problem I have is finding a dentist. I am from Kansas City, Mo and I never seen such a poor state with finding a dentist. My daughter and I have to drive all the way home to Missouri or go to Winnebago dental clinic to see a dentist and my daughter now has poor teeth and so do I. I plan on moving back home because of this problem. No dental office here accepts Medicaid, just way in Dakota Dunes. That's sorry.

• You should send out a list of dentist like the doctors and let us pick our own dentist since we do with the doctors

• There needs to be more dentist that accept the Medicaid card in the Lee county area.

• On the dental health provider. Most dentists will not accept new Title 19 patients. Like finding a dentist to accept Title 19 for my wisdom teeth. My regular dentist won't pull wisdom teeth. But I found somebody. But it was difficult.

• It is hard to get dental providers that accept Title 19 especially orthodontists.

• I don't understand why most of the dentists in Ames, Iowa do not accept Medicaid. It seems as though I would have to travel approximately 35 miles to Des Moines, Iowa  to see a dentist who accepts Medicaid. I find it surprising this is the case since there is a major university in Ames, Iowa. From my own experience, this is probably the weakest component of the Medicaid program here in Ames.

• Yes, it is hard to find a dentist that will take Medicaid. I feel like this is important for XIX people who have dental problems and live in pain because of teeth breaking off or teeth that need pulled out. Then don¹t get into the dentist because they don't take new patients. We have tried numerous dentists and have been turned down. Is there anything that we can do to get a dentist around here to accept XIX? My husband has a tooth in front that needs replaced and 2 pulled out and needs a root canal. He lives in constant pain and lives on Advil for the pain. He has had this pain for about a year and still no help. If there is anything that can be done please let me know by writing to this address.

• Not enough dental or orthodontist in area, actually none within 20-25 miles from where I live that accepts Medicaid. I had dental insurance through work, had braces put on my daughter, lost my job and insurance. The orthodontist wouldn't accept the Medicaid so I owe him $3800.00 and he wouldn¹t finish my daughter¹s treatment after he removed her braces. She said he was mean and rude to her every time she had to see him. These are the main reasons I put off care when needed. I think the program is great. It's the professionals who ruin it for those that need it and use it.

• I stay in Fort Madison, Iowa and there's not too many dentist here. I need my teeth fixed and the dentist I went to that accepts Medicaid was rude and would not refer me to other so what am I to do? Sincerely, Mrs Š.

• I would like a list of dentists that accept Medicaid because I don't have one. I saw a dentist a couple weeks ago, but I could only get in if it was an emergency. I would like to say that I think that Medicaid is a wonderful thing. Without it, I'd be so far in debt and very unhealthy.

• Medicaid health plan is fine. It's not being able to get the proper care from the doctors that is wrong. No dentist in this area will take it. I received better care when my mother was working and had her own insurance.

• It would be helpful to myself as well as others if dental offices would become more accessible to Title 19 homes as well as others. Otherwise your program is wonderful. I appreciate the help.

Vision

• With optical care, it isn't hard to find a place who accepts Medicaid. Although most places who do accept it, if you happen to need corrective lenses, have just a basic 3 or 4 cheepy type of frames for you to choose from and that's it. Which makes me feel sort of downgraded for being on Medicaid and not being able to select from the other 1000 of selection available to other health care insurance companies.

Discrimination

• When I go to the ER to get treatment they do not treat me very well. The last time I went to the ER I waited in a room for three hours before a doctor came in to see me. Then it took a nurse 45 minutes to bring in and give me a shot. I feel that I am not treated fairly when I go to the ER because I am on Medicaid. Thank you.

• I was unhappy with the lack of bedside manners and respect when my son had to go to the ER and stay the weekend at Ottumwa Regional Health Center. I am thrilled with his usual Dr., however, and feel she is the best Dr. we've had for him thus far.

• I am grateful for this insurance. Without it I would be in great debt and in need of much help. I am pleased with the overall coverage. But not with the treatment from those that find out I do have this type of coverage. I have a medicine in which I need to take 1 pill daily or I would be in much pain. It took the doctors over 8 months to figure out what the problem was. The medicine is covered and cost over $150.00 a month. Thank god for Medicaid.

Positive Comments

• Medicaid has been my lifesaver.

• I have never had very many problems while being on Medicaid. I'm more than happy there are plans like this out there to help people. Thank you.

• I just want to say I never would have made it without this Medicaid and I even work all the time and it is so hard to raise a child on your own and be financially stable at the same time. Even though I hate being supported by the state, I had to do it for my baby's sake. I hope that within the next 6 months I will be making enough money to get my own health insurance.

• I personally like title 19. I don't think people should feel ashamed to be on it or treated differently. I think you should leave the program just the way is it.

• I feel very fortunate to receive MediPASS. As a single mother it is one less thing to worry about. I do wish there was a way to be able to afford my own healthcare but fortunately I¹m able to receive MediPASS.

• Medicaid has been my primary medical assurance most of my life as a single parent. Our family has depended on Medicaid for all of our medical, dental, visual, and mental therapeutic needs. I thank god for this program and I do consider it a treasured privilege. Our family physicians and their staff are very professional, courteous, and efficient. The Medicaid program is obviously a very carefully constructed and structured system. Please don¹t change. Gratefully thanking all those involved in the medical programs provided through our great state of Iowa.

• Everybody is very helpful and very easy to talk to. Thanks.

• It would be nice to be able to use your services always because you're so good. But we wont be able to. I would like to thank you for the opportunity to say that Medicaid services have so surpassed my history with all other insurance companies and that it's a shame people are put down or looked down on, because your insurance holder is Medicaid. If you could ditch the Title 19 title and come up with something that's more reflective of your competitive services you should. For years, we've paid hundreds for lousy medical and dental policies that don't always come through with what they promised. One year ago, my husband went back to school full time, only working part time and on occasion not at all. Self-employment insurance was a joke, so we are very thankful we were eligible for Medicaid. In a couple of years, we'll move on to better jobs and once again back with private insurance plans. But I do thank you again for making this time of our lives easy, convenient and reliable. Everyone wants good health care and I believe we have it with Medicaid. Thank you for being there when we needed it.

The Survey

• It was sort of hard to answer this survey because I have a long existing work injury that is being taken care of through workman's comp and so some of the questions I didn't know how to answer.