A bit more on MinnesotaCare

A friend who wishes to remain anonymous provides a bit more info on the MinnesotaCare program discussed earlier.

The program seems similar to California's Low Income Health Program. The LIHP wasn't part of Medicaid, but it was set up with federal funds in preparation for Medicaid Expansion. However, Minnesota Care predates the ACA. It began in 1992. Part of its funding comes from federal Medicaid funds:

"MinnesotaCare is a publicly subsidized health care program for residents who do not have access to affordable health care coverage. It is funded by a state tax on Minnesota hospitals and health care providers, federal Medicaid funds and enrollee premiums.

Most enrollees pay a monthly premium based on family size and income. Children under 21, some military families, and families with an enrolled American Indian do not pay a monthly premium.

Enrollees get their health care services through a health plan. People can choose their health plan from those serving MinnesotaCare enrollees in their county.

History of MinnesotaCare

MinnesotaCare is a health care program subsidized by the state of Minnesota. MinnesotaCare was enacted by the 1992 Minnesota state Legislature in recognition of the number of uninsured, low-income Minnesota residents. MinnesotaCare was established to provide health care coverage to low-income people who do not have access to health coverage. MinnesotaCare was not intended as a low-cost alternative for employer-subsidized insurance nor to compete with the private health insurance market....