The recent fight over dramatic cuts to Medicaid in the failed GOP repeal of the Affordable Care Act has prompted calls to bolster the program – both on the federal level and within many states. 

Matt Salo, executive director of the National Association of Medicaid Directors, tells Bloomberg BNA that states are now considering policies that would boost the program for beneficiaries, governments, and taxpayers, including payment system innovations that encourage value-based care and better manage the chronically ill. 

A number of states are also looking to file waivers to make Medicaid eligibility rules more stringent by requiring a minimum number of work hours, beneficiary copays and premiums, and drug screenings. Carve-outs for disabled individuals on work requirements would also be likely.