State Medicaid Managed Care Advisory Committee (SMMCAC) Clinical Oversight and Administrative Simplification Subcommittee

Call to order, roll call, and introductions. The meeting was convened by Alfonso Velarde Supply of nutritional products for infants. HHSC spoke on the formula issues with Abbot Labs. A survey of MCOs was conducted and none reported any major difficulty in ensuring nutritional products.  Sometimes going to other providers or other formulas was necessary. Public Comment. Heather Ricketts, Nutritionist stated that the formula crisis is continuing.  Cost issues are exacerbating the situation.  The replacement of the formula is not as easy as people think.  Different formulas have different water ratios.  It is important to work with parents to educate them.  There is a trial process that must be followed.  You have to start with what is available and then work from there.  Finding similar formulas are then tried.  There is also communication with the healthcare provider that must occur.  Normal paperwork for these products can be as long as several weeks. Formula t