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Montana's Medicaid disenrollment is even a bigger catastrophe than previously reported – Daily Montanan

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Montana's Medicaid disenrollment is even a bigger catastrophe than previously reported – Daily Montanan


You wouldn’t believe how many different ways I tried to begin this column trying to find the perfect analogy or phrase to sum up just how badly the Gianforte administration has handled Medicaid in Montana.

Describing it as a dumpster fire, for example, would imply that a raging fire is contained in a small space. More importantly, it says nothing about the real Montanans who lives are upended by what is a political decision that has more to do with Republicans trying to out-Republican each other than it does with being earnestly concerned about fraud, the reason given for making Medicaid enrollment so severe in Montana.

Our ideologue governor has taken a system that was often cited as a model of how the Medicaid expansion could work and dismantled it, hurting Montanans who struggle, hospitals and healthcare professionals, and reneging on a financial set-up so sweet that it should make anyone with a little business acumen scratch their head.

Let’s begin with the basics: After the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone, including the federal government, knew that Medicaid rolls would need to be trimmed, and expected that many who were previously eligible would drop because they had either restarted employment or found a new job.

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But Montana’s number of people dropped from the public insurance enrollment has literally been extraordinary. As it stands right now, 10% of the state’s entire population has been dropped – a sheer number that should raise eyebrows.

The Gianforte administration in its zeal to attack a successful government program that has meant better health for residents as well as more stability for our stretched rural-centered healthcare, has also thumbed their noses at a deal that costs the state just a fraction of what it could be spending. For every dime the state contributes toward Medicaid, Montana receives 90 cents from the federal government. Virtually no other state gets a deal quite this sweet, and if the Gianforte administration had half of the business acumen it touts, it would be doing everything it could to take advantage of this deal.

Who wouldn’t take a deal that guaranteed giving us nine times the money we invest?

Setting aside the most important point that seems to get lost in every Medicaid policy discussion: The effect of Medicaid expansion in Montana has meant that residents are living healthier lives because they have insurance, and Medicaid has also meant a financial lifeline to hospitals who were strapped with a growing number of uninsured and underinsured patients.

These rural healthcare facilities in Montana are often the economic backbones of smaller communities, often being the largest private employer in rural communities. What the Gianforte administration has done, with the legislature’s approval, is threaten the viability of rural healthcare in the state by booting residents off the Medicaid rolls, leaving those already strapped healthcare organizations to absorb the loss. The lawmakers decided that Montana should “redetermine” eligibility more quickly, meaning there’s more churn to Medicaid, meaning more instability for residents and the healthcare they rely upon. Look no farther than what has happened to our rural nursing homes to see the results of not funding healthcare adequately.

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But don’t take my word for it, look at the statistics. Montana has been booting residents from the Medicaid roll at a clip that is around three times more than average nationally. What makes that fact even more troubling is the inconsistent, if not conflicting, reports lawmakers have gotten from the Department of Public Health and Human Services, whose answers have more closely resembled a choose-your-own-adventure book than transparency.

You may recall that as Montana started its Medicaid purge, the Biden administration placed the state on notice that it was booting residents so quickly while at the same time seeming to ignore that the state had created a situation that was nearly impossible for those same residents to talk to a live person to get help.

Keep in mind that Gianforte himself made close to a billion dollars by creating a technology company that served to create customer service call centers. So much, apparently, for running the state like a business. This should have been something that Gianforte could have solved himself.

As lawmakers from both parties expressed concern that Montana was booting too many residents too quickly off Medicaid, DPHHS director Charlie Brereton quipped that the state could actually speed up the process – a sort of veiled threat that lawmakers should step lightly.

Yet last week, when lawmakers continued to press for answers about why so many people were losing insurance, as well as other related matters, Brereton told legislators that his staff were so taxed, and spread so thin that they simply don’t have time to answer their questions – the same people who are charged with making policy decisions about this essential care.

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So, I’ll ask: Which is it, Mr. Brereton? Is it that your staff could boot Montana residents even more quickly from health insurance that they need, or is it that you can’t even provide answers because your staff is so overworked?

An equally plausible answer is that the administration could start bumping off residents from Medicaid more quickly and won’t answer the lawmakers’ questions because the state is carrying out a political decision that has little to do with ensuring Montanans’ health, making a sound financial decision or worrying about the economic health or rural Montana.

Let me put it bluntly, though – in terms that would normally be hyperbole, but, in this case, are literal.

When people don’t have insurance, they suffer more and die sooner.

When rural healthcare facilities see a rise in uncompensated, uninsured patients, they close.

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When lawmakers can’t get answers from their partners in government, public trust is eroded and government moves from function to dysfunction.

Maybe the Gianforte administration can help me: How is any of this an example of good government?



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Montana

Montana Lottery Mega Millions, Lucky For Life results for Nov. 19, 2024

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The Montana Lottery offers multiple draw games for those aiming to win big. Here’s a look at Nov. 19, 2024, results for each game:

Winning Mega Millions numbers from Nov. 19 drawing

05-35-50-51-59, Mega Ball: 08, Megaplier: 4

Check Mega Millions payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Lucky For Life numbers from Nov. 19 drawing

07-10-17-24-26, Lucky Ball: 13

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Check Lucky For Life payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Big Sky Bonus numbers from Nov. 19 drawing

01-12-13-21, Bonus: 16

Check Big Sky Bonus payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

When are the Montana Lottery drawings held?

  • Powerball: 8:59 p.m. MT on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
  • Mega Millions: 9:00 p.m. MT on Tuesday and Friday.
  • Lucky For Life: 8:38 p.m. MT daily.
  • Lotto America: 9:00 p.m. MT on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
  • Big Sky Bonus: 7:30 p.m. MT daily.
  • Powerball Double Play: 8:59 p.m. MT on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
  • Montana Cash: 8:00 p.m. MT on Wednesday and Saturday.

Winning lottery numbers are sponsored by Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network.

Where can you buy lottery tickets?

Tickets can be purchased in person at gas stations, convenience stores and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets.

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You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer.

Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 18+ (19+ in NE, 21+ in AZ). Physically present where Jackpocket operates. Jackpocket is not affiliated with any State Lottery. Eligibility Restrictions apply. Void where prohibited. Terms: jackpocket.com/tos.

This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Great Falls Tribune editor. You can send feedback using this form.



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Martinelli scores 22, Barnhizer adds double-double and Northwestern holds off Montana State

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Martinelli scores 22, Barnhizer adds double-double and Northwestern holds off Montana State



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EVANSTON, Ill. (AP) — Nick Martinelli scored 22 points, Brooks Barnhizer added 20 points and grabbed 10 rebounds and Northwestern held off Montana State for a 72-69 victory on Tuesday night.

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Jabe Mullins hit a 3-pointer for Montana State that tied it 67-all with 47 seconds left. Matthew Nicholson answered for Northwestern with an alley-oop dunk and then Ty Berry blocked Brandon Walker’s layup attempt on the Bobcats’ ensuing series.

The Wildcats’ Jalen Leach made a pair of free throws with 10 seconds remaining and Justin Mullins sealed it with another free throw with 2 seconds left.

Martinelli was 10-of-22 shooting and had seven rebounds. The junior forward entered averaging 25.3 points, which ranks second in the Big Ten Conference and 11th nationally, and 7.8 rebounds (9th in Big Ten).

Barnhizer was 9-of-15 shooting and led the Wildcats with four of their 13 assists. Leach finished with 12 points for Northwestern (4-1).

Mullins scored 17 points and made three of the Bobcats’ nine 3-pointers. Walker chipped in 14 points and Max Agbonkpolo added 13 for Montana State (1-4).

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Agbonkpolo scored 10 first-half points to pace the Bobcats to a 39-34 halftime advantage. The Wildcats took a 42-41 lead on Martinelli’s hook shot and consecutive 3s from Ty Berry stretched it to 52-42. It was tied 57-all and then neither team held more than a three-point lead until the final seconds.

It was the first meeting between the teams.



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Harrison Ford films the second season of 1923 in Montana after a long delay due to the actors’ strike

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Harrison Ford films the second season of 1923 in Montana after a long delay due to the actors’ strike


Harrison Ford was spotted stepping back into his character of Jacob Dutton on set of 1923 while filming the Western drama’s second season on Sunday in Montana.

The Indiana Jones star,  82 – who recently celebrated his wife Calista Flockhart’s 60th birthday – could be seen standing on a snow-covered sidewalk as he shot a scene in the chilly weather. 

Ford bundled up wearing a double-breasted, dark blue coat that was buttoned at the front, as well as a pair of olive green trousers. 

The actor additionally donned a plaid shirt and scarf underneath while slipping into a pair of blue shoes. 

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For a finishing touch, Harrison added a brown hat on top of his head while a shiny, silver sheriff’s pin was placed on the left side of his jacket. 

Last year in February, the Paramount+ prequel to Yellowstone was officially renewed for season two – after the series debuted with 7.4 million viewers. 

Harrison Ford, 82, was spotted stepping back into his character of Jacob Dutton on set of 1923 while filming the Western drama’s second season on Sunday in Montana

After facing a delay during the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, the show – created and co-written by Taylor Sheridan – appears to be in full production. 

Cast members from the first season are expected to return, including Helen Mirren who plays Cara Dutton, as well as Brandon Sklenar, Julia Schlaepfer, Darren Mann, Michelle Randolph (who is now on Landman) and Brian Geraghty. 

The premise of the drama follows, ‘The Duttons as they face a new set of challenges in the early 20th century, including the rise of Western expansion, Prohibition, and the Great Depression,’ per IMDB.   

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New stars will also be joining the original cast, such as Augustus Prew and Dexter alum, Jennifer Carpenter. 

Plot details for the upcoming season have remained under wraps with the show still in its development stages. 

During an interview with The Wrap last year, Harrison reflected on taking on a leading role in the prequel series. 

He explained, ‘Both Helen and I signed up at whatever time without a script and Taylor Sheridan was producing that script while I was making this last television project,’ referencing to the show Shrinking. 

‘We’re both thrilled with the outcome and the characters that were created and the opportunities that those characters presented.’

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Ford bundled up wearing a double-breasted, dark blue coat that was buttoned at the front, as well as a pair of olive green trousers

Ford bundled up wearing a double-breasted, dark blue coat that was buttoned at the front, as well as a pair of olive green trousers

Last year in February, the Paramount+ prequel to Yellowstone was officially renewed for season two - after the series debuted with 7.4 million viewers

Last year in February, the Paramount+ prequel to Yellowstone was officially renewed for season two – after the series debuted with 7.4 million viewers

1923 is the second prequel to the hit Yellowstone series – with 1883 starring Faith Hill and husband Tim McGraw premiering in 2021. 

While talking to the outlet, Ford discussed how he had been a fan of Yellowstone before 1923. 

‘I admire what Kevin [Costner is] doing. I’ve always admired him as he’s a wonderful actor and he’s had a fantastic career.’

Ford continued, ‘But it was more important for me to spend what time I had watching 1883. I really wanted to be grounded in the experience of the history of a family up to the point.’ 

‘I didn’t spend that much time watching the most contemporary iteration of the Dutton family.’ 

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During an interview with Deadline, Sheridan opened up about casting Ford and Mirren – and also having them do more than one season. 

‘They were excited. They only signed on originally for one season. They were so eager to continue it,’ the writer stated. 

‘Harrison made a comment at one point, he goes, “Taylor I think I’m making the best thing I’ve made in 20 years.”‘

During an interview with The Wrap last year, Harrison reflected on taking on a leading role in the prequel series

During an interview with The Wrap last year, Harrison reflected on taking on a leading role in the prequel series

'They were excited. They only signed on originally for one season. They were so eager to continue it,' Sheridan stated; Mirren and Ford seen in February in Beverly Hills

‘They were excited. They only signed on originally for one season. They were so eager to continue it,’ Sheridan stated; Mirren and Ford seen in February in Beverly Hills 

Taylor jokingly added, ‘And my response to him was, “What the f**k did you make 20 years ago as good as this? What was that? I missed that one. What was it?”‘ 

Last month in October, Harrison revealed that he has no plans to retire from acting and explained his decision. 

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‘I get out of it essential human contact,’ he explained. ‘I get to imagine with people that have great skill and experience. It’s fun to work with these people.’ 

And in June of last year, he further reflected on why he enjoys stepping in front of the camera in his early 80s. 

‘I don’t do well when I don’t have work,’ Ford told Variety. ‘I love to work. I love to feel useful. It’s my jones. I want to be helpful.’ 

Last month in October, Harrison revealed that he has no plans to retire from acting and explained his decision; seen in 2022 in Anaheim

Last month in October, Harrison revealed that he has no plans to retire from acting and explained his decision; seen in 2022 in Anaheim

The Blade Runner actor added, ‘It is the people you get to work with. The intensity and the intimacy of collaboration.’ 

‘It’s the combined ambition somehow forged from words on a page. I don’t plan what I want to do in a scene. I don’t feel obliged to do anything. I’m naturally affected by things that I work on.’ 

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Along with the second season of 1923, Harrison has other projects under his belt – such as Captain America: Brave New World, which is set to release next year in February 2025. 

He took on the role of the Red Hulk – also known as Thaddeus ‘Thunderbolt’ Ross – alongside Anthony Mackie, Seth Rollins and Rosa Salazar.  



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