2000-2007 NJ: +500% increase in medicaid spending on anti-psychotics for kids < 18

[Hannah Bell]

http://www.pharmalot.com/2008/02/nj-legislator-probe-antipsychotics-kids-medicaid/

New Jersey’s Medicaid program spent more than $73 million on antipsychotic medications for children less than 18 years old between 2000 and 2007...

[glowing]

1. I know in FL, the more children on drugs.. like ridalin.. the more the state receives

in money.. It pays to have them on drugs...

[Hannah Bell]

2. How so?

[glowing]

3. I'm not sure if its the pharm co's or fed. money, but each kid they stick on

some kind of drug, they get $5000.00... it pays to diagnose many of them with ADD.. when many just need more recess time.

[Hannah Bell]

4. Who is "they"? The doctor? "The state" doesn't put kids on meds unless they're

institutionalized.

I'm not throwing water on this, but without specifics, it's not useful.

[glowing]

5. If a teacher suspects that a child has ADD or ADHD, then they can ask

for the child to be tested.. there's tests.. the recommendations may come in the form of a prescription.. I've known people to go to Homeschooling rather than have their child drugged..

[Hannah Bell]

6. you're saying schools get $5000 for every kid on antipsychotics?

gotta link?