01.12.10 - CT DSS CASELOAD SKYROCKETING AS THE ECONOMY PUSHES MORE RESIDENTS INTO STATE SERVICES

The State of Connecticut recently released a report stating that residents are increasingly turning to the state for help in meeting essential needs -- especially medical care and financial support. Growing economic woes are spurring increased enrollment in DSS run programs.

Commissioner Michael P. Starkowski stated that 9 key DSS programs showed a total enrollment of nearly 924,000 in November 2009 – up 18% in just one year.

The numbers have significantly increased caseloads for DSS workers as demand for safety-net services keeps climbing with no stoppage in sight.

According to the Commissioner, “the five-year enrollment growth rate of 40% represents a steady upward trend that also reflects factors like higher eligibility standards for public health coverage.”

Enrollment is skyrocketing in HUSKY for children and eligible parents. Additionally, over 445,700 individuals receiving Medicaid coverage for November 2009 is up 7% in one year and 33% in five years. The report also stated that Medicaid accounts for over $4 billion of the over $5 billion annual DSS appropriation.

Further study also showed one-year enrollment increases ranging from 5.3% in State-Administered General Assistance (SAGA) cash aid as well as a 42% in the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program.

To read the report in its entirety, please visit http://www.ct.gov/dss/cwp/view.asp?Q=453332&A=2345