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9,000 Cut From Children's Medical Services

A screening system for the state's Children's Medical Services program has resulted in the removal of 9,000 poor and disabled children from the program, the Miami Herald reports.

Records obtained by the Heraldshow the screening process has helped reduce spending on the program converted a few years ago from a fee-for-service plan into managed care. Former CMS division director PhyllisSloyertold the Heraldthe screening is "definitely rationing of care" for the state's sickest children.

Florida Surgeon General John Armstrong said the changes were designed to comply with state law, and maintained that the program remains strong, the Heraldreports.

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