State of Alabama outlines cuts to Medicaid

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - Alabama state officials have outlined cuts to Medicaid that have come as a result of lower than expected state revenue.

The cuts include a 10 percent reduction to payments for certain providers, including doctors, dentists, x-rays, medical equipment and maternity primary contractors.

While state officials say benefits to children won't change, some adult benefits will. Medicaid will only cover routine eye exams once every three years instead of once every two, and the state is ending coverage of eyeglasses as a benefit.

The cuts also mean Medicaid will only cover one brand-name drug per month. Generic drugs and over-the-counter medicines will still be covered.

Medicaid will no longer cover cough and cold drugs for all recipients, though certain over-the-counter drugs are still covered.

The changes go into effect June 1.