A discussion about Minnesota health care issues can be rife with acronyms. Here are some of the frequently heard terms:
-- MDHS - Minnesota Department of Human Services. The largest state agency, it administers subsidized health care programs, welfare assistance, child protection programs and mental health treatment.
-- MDH - Minnesota Department of Health. A smaller agency that deals more with prevention of health problems.
-- MA - Medical Assistance. The largest health care program, paying for services for low-income Minnesotans. The state's version of Medicaid.
-- GAMC - General Assistance Medical Care. An alternative health care program that helps pay for services sought by low-income citizens who don't qualify for other programs.
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-- MnCare - A state health insurance program, formally known as MinnesotaCare. For working Minnesotans who don't meet requirements of other assistance programs but can't afford coverage through their employers.
-- HCAF - Health Care Access Fund. A state account that pays for MinnesotaCare. It includes medical care provider tax revenue, federal dollars and premium payments from MnCare participants.
-- MFIP - Minnesota Family Investment Program. The state's welfare program, providing cash, child care support and food stamps to poor Minnesota families. Recipients must meet income and other requirements, and can receive cash assistance for up to five years.
-- TANF - Temporary Assistance to Needy Families. A federal program that provides funding for state welfare and other human services assistance.
