Report: Health programs could be cut under Strickland budget proposal

In an effort to begin addressing the state’s anticipated $3.2 billion revenue shortfall, Gov. Ted Strickland is reportedly floating a plan to cut $2 billion in spending, with much of the reductions coming from Medicaid and other health services for the poor, according to source who spoke to the Columbus Dispatch (Source: “Governor suggests $2 billion in cuts,” Columbus Dispatch, June 17, 2009).

Among the cuts that are reportedly being considered by the governor are to dental, vision and other Medicad services, and the Passport program that enables elderly patients to obtain in-home care that than care at a nursing home.

The Governor’s office has not publically offered any details on potential cuts needed to close the budget gap. "No decisions have been made," said Amanda Wurst, spokeswoman for Strickland. "The governor does not intend to have those discussions or provide information outside of budget deliberations."