Consumer input CAN change our health care system for the better. In a recent blog, we shared how our survey of MyCare Ohio enrollees’ experiences informed decisions to improve care coordination and the availability of all services, supplies, and equipment. We’ve continued to use the survey findings to advocate for changes to make health care work better for all MyCare Ohio enrollees, and we’re happy to share another success!

Ohio Consumer Voice for Integrated Care (OCVIC) is UHCAN Ohio’s statewide coalition that is working to improve the care of older adults and people with disabilities enrolled in MyCare Ohio by bringing the voice of consumers to the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs). Our efforts influenced the Ohio Department of Medicaid to create a new measurement that guides the Managed Care Organizations to reduce the time it takes to approve a request or process an appeal for Durable Medical Equipment (DME). Our survey identified this as a problem for many enrollees, showing that:

80% of respondents reported that they require the use of DME, yet 73% stated they did not receive a needed upgrade or replacement in a timely manner.

This change means enrollees will get their needed equipment faster or their appeal processed faster.

Thanks to the all the people who distributed the survey and the over 3,000 enrollees who shared their concerns and experiences. Together we can get Ohioans the care they need to lead healthier lives through an organized consumer voice. To join the coalition or learn more about what OCVIC is doing, contact John Arnold.