Proposal may limit domestic abuse victims’ access to medical aid
Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), domestic violence screening and counseling are required to be covered by insurance companies. However, Gov. Scott Walker has decided not to accept funding for expanded Medicaid programs. This means that victims of domestic assault who rely on BadgerCare, Wisconsin’s Medicaid program, may be responsible for higher out-of-pocket costs for these services while those covered by private health insurance will have these services completely covered.
In certain emergency rooms, when someone enters, medical professionals look for signs of abuse, including broken bones and bruises. The professionals will also look for patterns of abuse, such as repeated visits to the emergency room and non-specific complaints. Every person who is treated at these emergency rooms is asked about possible incidents of domestic violence. It is reported that victims are more likely to eventually report an incidence of domestic violence if they are continuously screened.
If an individual indicates an incident of domestic violence, they are currently entitled to screening and counseling services under BadgerCare with small co-pays of several dollars or monthly deductibles depending upon their income. However, Gov. Walker has submitted a proposal that would reduce the number of people eligible for BadgerCare. In numerous studies, an association between poverty and domestic violence has been identified. While incidents of domestic violence happen in every economic class, victims who are living in poverty may not have the resources to leave the relationship.
Individuals who are physically or emotionally abused can file charges against their abusers, and these charges are taken very seriously. However, innocent individuals can be accused with violent crimes that they did not commit. An experienced Milwaukee attorney may be able to help protect their client’s rights and future by building a strong defense against claims of domestic violence.
Source: Urban Milwaukee, “Another Hole in the Safety Net?“, Brendan O’Brien, June 04, 2013
