Indiana's Medicaid program will cost about $1 billion more in the current state budget than previously expected.

The state is delaying the return of Medicaid premiums and expects to release its plan to restart POWER accounts in January. Some Indiana Medicaid advocates are still hoping the federal agency in charge of Medicaid will prevent the resumption of premiums before then.

The state is changing how it handles long-term care for Medicaid members 60 years or older through its Pathways for Aging program. State officials also highlighted the success of a program meant to address one of the leading causes.

State officials said Indiana's lack of access to obstetrics care is growing, which is driving the state's high infant and maternal mortality rates. Some lawmakers said more funding and better Medicaid reimbursements could help keep birthing centers open.

A legislative committee directed to make recommendations on the states Medicaid program approved its final report without any recommendations. The committee chair says their work will inform recommendations ahead of planning for the 2025 state budget.

The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration is applying for a new Medicaid waiver that would expand access to nursing facility alternatives. The waiver will be open to public comment until Dec. 14.

Some Indiana lawmakers raised concerns about the proposed Medicaid reimbursement rate for a common behavioral treatment for people with autism. They say it could put access at risk. The director of Indiana Medicaid formally presented the new rate at a State Budget Committee meeting Friday.

Indiana lawmakers want to evaluate the states Medicaid program and plans for the future. A new committee will look at requests for new services or changes to the program.

The Indiana Hospital Association said hospitals are at a financial breaking point as state lawmakers begin a deep dive into Medicaid funding.

Parents of children with autism and providers have concerns that a common behavioral treatment for people with autism could be at risk due to a new proposed Medicaid rate. Some parents and providers say the updated rate isnt enough to cover the cost.