Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is inviting current and former Medicaid members to join the newly established Beneficiary Advisory Council (BAC). This initiative aims to provide a platform for Medicaid recipients in Michigan to share their experiences with the services they receive. The formation of the BAC aligns with the CMS Final Rule issued on May 10, 2024.

Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director, stated, "MDHHS is recruiting community members with lived experience to discuss barriers to care for those receiving Medicaid services." She emphasized that the BAC will enable its members to openly discuss their experiences, which will be crucial in shaping both current and future Medicaid policies.

The department plans to select approximately 15 members for the council. These individuals will be chosen based on their application responses, ensuring representation from diverse communities across Michigan. Eligibility extends to current and former Medicaid beneficiaries residing in Michigan, as well as caregivers of these beneficiaries. Participants will receive compensation for their involvement.

In addition to participating in BAC activities, members may also attend quarterly Medical Care Advisory Council (MCAC) meetings. The MCAC includes MDHHS leadership, health professionals serving Medicaid beneficiaries, and consumer organization representatives.

BAC members will engage in several key activities:

- Voting on aspects of the BAC such as its name and bylaws.

- Identifying barriers to care faced by Medicaid members statewide.

- Addressing social determinants of health affecting those served by MDHHS.

- Listening to shared experiences at BAC meetings and conveying important information to MDHHS leadership during MCAC meetings to influence policy decisions impacting Medicaid members.

Meetings are scheduled quarterly and will be conducted virtually. New members will receive comprehensive orientation. Those requiring assistance for meeting attendance should indicate this need on their application.

Members have the option of receiving compensation for attending both BAC and MCAC meetings, including hourly stipends and reimbursement for day care or respite services needed.

Interested individuals can apply online or submit a printable application via mail addressed to:

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

ATTN: Program Policy Division – BAC

PO BOX 30731

Lansing, MI 48933