What is GAMC?
GAMC stands for General Assistance Medical Care. For more than 35 years, GAMC has helped fill the gap in coverage for childless adults making up to $8,000 per year. Minnesota is one of few states to offer a state-funded program to help cover health care for the poor.
Why the change after 35 years?
To help balance the state budget, the Governor used a line-item veto to eliminate the GAMC program.
Isn’t balancing the state budget a good thing?
In general, a balanced budget makes sense. However, regardless of budget issues, people still get sick and require treatment. This includes the uninsured.
About 55 percent of GAMC funding went to hospitals serving the uninsured. HCMC, the state’s primary public safety hospital and trauma center, stands to lose the most – $43 million in 2010 and $50 million in 2011 – if alternate funding is not found.
Why should I care if HCMC loses funding?
Even if inadvertently, you will be affected. When GAMC ends in April 2010, 35,000 Minnesotans will be at greater risk for losing health insurance. These individuals will still need care and the lost funding to serve them has to come from somewhere. Therefore, HCMC will be forced to cut programs and services we have all come to rely on, including teaching and training, statewide care and disaster preparedness. Additionally, Minnesotans can expect to see a reduction in health care access that occurs when hospitals and clinics are forced to provide free care.
Is it too late?
Absolutely not. The legislature is discussing this issue now, and the fallout is not certain. However, action must be taken. Legislative representatives need to know Minnesotans demand alternate funding. We must act now.
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