With Medicaid cuts ahead, Louisiana’s rural health providers battle over payments

Louisiana's Act 859 increases Medicaid payments for independent rural health clinics by $41.50 this fiscal year and next, assuming federal government approval. Independent provider Herndon “Buzz” Jeansonne welcomed the rate increase, stating it would have prevented him from selling his businesses. However, some owners of rural hospitals argue that the raise gives independently owned clinics a financial edge over their own facilities.