Wisconsin residents on the waiting list for BadgerCare Plus will have access to a temporary health insurance program, under legislation signed into law by the Governor Friday.
The bill authorizes the creation of a BadgerCare Plus Basic program, which is designed to provide coverage for the 43,000 Wisconsinites on the waiting list for the more comprehensive BadgerCare Core program. Governor Jim Doyle says it’s not a “Cadillac plan,” but it will provide a basic level of coverage that’s “better than having nothing.”
Those enrolled will have access to coverage for doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and a prescription drug plan. Participants will have to pay a $130 premium each month and co-pays, which Governor Doyle says will fund the entire program.
Doyle says the new program will fill an important role in keeping those on the waiting list healthy until other coverage options become available.
Sign-ups begin on June first, with coverage starting in July.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (:66)