This National Academy for State Health Policy report highlights key aspects of BadgerCare Plus, Wisconsin’s innovative health insurance program, that may be helpful for other states as they seek new ways to extend health care coverage.

From the report:

Similar to proposed federal reforms, BadgerCare Plus operates as a system that builds on Medicaid and CHIP while also supporting employer-sponsored insurance. Medicaid and CHIP programs do not operate in isolation, so it is important for states to consider how these programs interact with employer-sponsored insurance plans and the remaining components of the health care financing sector. In Wisconsin, individuals and families eligible for either Medicaid or CHIP enroll in BadgerCare Plus, and do not need to know which program funds their health insurance. In addition, families above 300% FPL can buy into the CHIP program. Enrollees do not need to apply separately for Medicaid and CHIP; instead, BadgerCare Plus enrolls each beneficiary in the appropriate program.

Full report: BadgerCare Plus Program: Medicaid and Subsidies Under One Umbrella (PDF | 219.33 KB)

National Academy for State Health Policy (2009). BadgerCare Plus Program: Medicaid and subsidies under one umbrella. Witgert, K.E.