INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO): This afternoon, Governor Mike Pence announced an agreement, with the federal government, to continue the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) through December 31, 2014.

“Securing a waiver to continue the Healthy Indiana Plan is a victory for Hoosiers enrolled in this innovative program and will ensure that Indiana remains at the forefront of consumer-driven healthcare in the United States,” said Governor Pence. 

Under the one-year Medicaid waiver, HIP will retain its consumer-driven model and health savings accounts. Plus, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services provided the state with additional tools to manage enrollment so Indiana can maintain the program’s fiscal sustainability.

“The Healthy Indiana Plan has a proven track record of success, and we are pleased to continue the program,” said Debra Minott, Secretary of Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. “Consumer-driven health care helps lower costs over time and provides people with quality care, and we look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Health and Human Services on the future of the Healthy Indiana Plan.” 

The Healthy Indiana Plan began in 2008 under a five-year waiver from the federal government.  It is the nation’s first consumer-directed plan for Medicaid recipients.