Policy Resources
Below you’ll find policy-related resources developed in partnership with the Center for Health and Research Transformation (CHRT) at the University of Michigan and the Institute for Public Policy & Social Research at Michigan State University. Publications on this page are meant to help educate and inform health organizations, community partners, legislators, and others on policy discussions related to health that could impact their communities.
Michigan Medicaid: A primer
Medicaid is a jointly funded federal and state program that provides health insurance coverage for many low-income children and adults, making it an important and powerful tool for improving the health of Michiganders. In June 2024, over 2.6 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents were enrolled in Medicaid. Developed by CHRT as a resource for legislators — but useful for many others — this primer offers key information about Medicaid in Michigan, including an overview of Medicaid financing, eligibility, benefits, and important challenges facing the program. Published September, 2024.
Supporting Direct Care Workers in Michigan
Direct Care Workers play a critical role in the health of our state by providing long-term care services to older adults, people with disabilities, and others. The professions in this field have some of the highest shortage levels and turnover rates of all health care workers in Michigan, creating significant barriers for many individuals and families who need these services. Our partners at CHRT developed this legislative brief, which highlights important data and presents potentially helpful policy strategies tied to compensation, benefits, career advancement, and more. Published June 2024.
The Behavioral Health Landscape in Michigan
Like much of the nation, Michigan is grappling with significant challenges in providing access to mental health and substance use services. This primer offers a high-level overview of the state’s behavioral health system for legislators, including summaries related to the coverage landscape, challenges currently facing the system, and policy-related strategies to improve access to services in Michigan. Published February 2024.
The Healthcare Workforce in Michigan
Nearly one in six private sector employees in Michigan works in health care. Like the rest of the nation, Michigan is facing severe shortages in numerous professions in the health care workforce, with nearly all roles expected to experience shortages within the next decade. This primer provides a breakdown on the makeup of Michigan health workforce, along with projected shortages, factors contributing to challenges, and key policy strategies for closing these gaps. Published February 2024.