Daily Minute: Changes to mental health coverage; airlines still interested; bowling in the Bronx

Good morning, Lincoln. Here’s what you should know today.

Changes to mental health coverage

Behavioral health providers across Nebraska say a change intended to expand federal health insurance coverage of mental health care has instead put vulnerable patients at risk of losing services.

In expanding Medicare’s coverage to some behavioral health services like licensed independent mental health practitioners, providers say the reimbursements they were receiving through Nebraska’s Medicaid program have been slashed dramatically.

That has produced a 50% loss in payments for individuals that qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid — so-called “dual eligible” individuals — resulting in losses of thousands of dollars to providers across the state.

Airlines still interested

The debacle of Red Way airlines has not hampered the Lincoln Airport's efforts to attract more airlines and flights, officials say.

The startup airline spectacularly crashed and burned in the summer of 2023, tearing through $3 million in local incentives and shutting down less than three months after it started.

The question for David Haring, executive director of the airport, was whether Red Way’s failure would have a lasting negative effect on other airlines’ interest in Lincoln

The answer so far, Haring said, has been no.

Bowling in the Bronx

The Nebraska football team is headed east for its bowl game, and its upcoming opponent won’t have as far to travel.

The Huskers will face Boston College on Dec. 28 in New York City at the Pinstripe Bowl, marking the first-ever matchup between the two programs.

The Journal Star offers some insight on what to know about the Eagles as well as connections between the team’s coach, Bill O’Brien, and Nebraska coach Matt Rhule

That’s it for Tuesday, Dec 10. Stay in the know with Lincoln’s longest-standing news source at JournalStar.com and we will see you back here tomorrow.

Top Journal Star photos for December 2024

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