What specific consequence must an analyst model when a state legislature considers expanding Medicaid eligibility?

The resulting strain on local hospital emergency departments

When evaluating proposed policy changes, such as an expansion of Medicaid eligibility, the analyst must conduct forward-looking modeling to predict potential effects. This modeling must encompass several key areas. Specifically, they must project the increase in patient volume that will seek care under the expanded eligibility. Crucially, this projection must include the resulting strain placed upon existing infrastructure, such as local hospital emergency departments, which often serve as default points of access. Furthermore, the analyst is responsible for calculating the budgetary implications, assessing how funding requirements will be distributed across both state and federal funding sources to ensure sustainability and feasibility.