Minn. doctors want share of health funds

The state's largest physician group, the Minnesota Medical Association, says doctors and clinics that treat Medicaid and MinnesotaCare patients should get a share of an estimated extra $35 million coming into the state's coffers this summer.

The money is part of a deal the Dayton administration made with four large HMOs to return profits from the government programs above 1 percent of revenue.

Dave Renner of the MMA says a share of that money should go to those who provide health care to low-income Minnesotans.

"Many clinics who are serving low-income patients are losing money every time they see one of those patients," said Renner. "The reimbursement that they're receiving from these public programs are not even covering their overhead costs, the costs of keeping their offices going."

Other proposals for the money include reversing cuts to the Emergency Medical Assistance program.

State GOP leaders say before committing to more spending, the Legislature should wait until the money is available.