2008 | Charity Care in New Jersey: Issues in Research and Public Policy

A presentation by Rutgers Center for State Health Policy, hosted by the Office of Legislative Services.

This event will feature a presentation by Derek DeLia, Ph.D., Associate Research Professor at Rutgers Center for State Health Policy, whose research has focused on the organization and reimbursement of hospitals and health centers, health care access by the poor and uninsured, and health insurance coverage. Dr. DeLia will provide an overview of hospital-based charity care in New Jersey, including a profile of charity care patients, a description of services provided, and an explanation of the resulting financial pressures on general hospitals and the State budget. He will also highlight opportunities to reduce avoidable hospital utilization through better coordination and management of care for low-income uninsured patients, and will consider charity care in the larger context of recent and potential health care reforms in this State. After Dr. DeLia’s presentation, a panel including representatives from the New Jersey Hospital Association, the Hospital Alliance of New Jersey, and the New Jersey Primary Care Association will engage in a discussion of health and policy implications that will focus specifically on the provision and financing of health care for low-income uninsured persons. In addition, a senior official from the NJ Department of Health & Senior Services will comment on behalf of the Department.