Great News from CNA; successful legislative action
Dear CNA Members, Affiliates, and Professional Colleagues:
Lobbyist Charlie Hebeler contacted CNA late yesterday afternoon and informed that the Joint Budget Committee met on Tuesday, March 16 to consider the Medicaid budget cuts. CNA had notified the committee by letter of a coalition of health care organizations opposing the 10% cut targeting APNs and PAs. CNA proposed an alternate .1% addition to the across the board cut, a total across the board cut of 1.1% to better capture the savings without adversely impacting care. CNA had also met with JBC staff represented by Tay Kopanos and Mary Ciambelli, GAPP Chair. Yesterday, the JBC voted to NOT implement the 10%cut for APNs and PAs. Many APNs had contacted the JBC from across the state with specific examples of the impact on care. This is a strong victory for nursing and for access. The JBC further left the across the board cut for all providers at 1%.
CNA had convened stakeholder meetings to oppose the Medicaid cuts, and wishes to acknowledge the following organizations for their support on this issue.
The Colorado Rural Health Center and the Colorado Association of Nurse Anesthetists are acknowledged for their EARLY organizational support and efforts to oppose the cuts.
Thank you also to:
- Colorado Hospital Association
- American College of Nurse Midwives, Denver Chapter, V, Region III
- Mental Health America
- Northern Colorado Nurse Practitioner Coalition
- Clinic Net
- Public Health Nurses of Colorado
- Colorado Society of Advance Practice Nurses
- Colorado Society of Clinical Specialists in Psychiatric Nursing
CNA also recognizes the Government Affairs and Public Policy Committee and Lobbyist Charlie Hebeler for their direction on the issue. Tay Kopanos is also recognized for the alternate proposal strategy suggested in lieu of a 10% cut.
This outcome has been the result of a sustained strategic effort pushed by Colorado Nurses Association. The efforts of many individuals and organizations have contributed to the result. Thank you to all who made a difference on this issue.
Fran Ricker, RN, MSN
Executive Director
Colorado Nurses Association
