Governor Pence Signs Bill to Codify HIP 2.0, Ensures Hundreds of Thousands Receive Quality Health Care

Indianapolis – Governor Mike Pence today signed legislation (Senate Enrolled Act 165) to codify the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) 2.0 into law, ensuring more than 370,000 Hoosiers have access to affordable and quality health care.  

“Rooted in consumerism and personal responsibility, Indiana’s HIP 2.0 program is establishing a new health care paradigm that has become a model for other states,” said Governor Pence. “Hundreds of thousands of Hoosiers have enrolled in this one-of-a-kind program and are taking ownership of their health care, which is a testament to the program’s continued success. Hoosiers may be assured that my administration will continue working to improve the health and well-being of Hoosiers through personal responsibility, self-sufficiency, and independence. Innovative state programs like HIP 2.0 are the model for health care reform going forward, and I couldn’t be more pleased to codify it into law today.” 

HIP 2.0 is the nation’s first consumer-driven health care program for Medicaid-eligible or low-income individuals. The program has replaced traditional Medicaid for all non-disabled adults in the state. Unlike traditional Medicaid programs, the HIP 2.0 program’s goal is not only to provide access to health insurance, but to engage members to take ownership for their health. The program introduces private market insurance concepts to prepare individuals for self-sufficiency.  

In January, Governor Pence marked the first anniversary of the landmark approval of the HIP 2.0 waiver and lauded the early successes of the program. Today, nearly 7 out of 10 HIP 2.0 enrollees are electing to make contributions to their health savings-like account, and the program has attracted more than 5,300 new health care providers to serve both Medicaid and HIP 2.0 members. 

To follow legislation as it reaches the Governor’s desk, visit http://in.gov/gov/2016billwatch.htm