(Columbia-AP) July 25, 2003 - Governor Mark Sanford says too many case workers from different agencies visit people on Medicaid. The program faces a $170 million shortfall, according to Health and Human Services Director Robert Kerr.

Sanford says duplications result in higher costs and poor treatment of those who need the federal-state health care program. The governor met with officials from three health-related agencies on Thursday.

Representatives of the departments of Health and Human Services, Social Services and Health and Environmental Control discussed ways to save money. Sanford asked DHEC officials about how health care and environment work together as one agency.

DHEC Commissioner Earl Hunter says the agency's mission is to protect the public's health through environmental regulations, testing and prevention. Hunter says his agency could cut programs like beach surf monitoring and tanning bed and swimming pool inspections.

Kerr says he wants Medicaid recipients to see primary care physicians, rather than head to hospital emergency rooms for non-emergency treatments. Kerr also wants a review of eligibility requirements for the Medicaid program.

The director is not allowed to make any changes until after September because of federal requirements. Other ideas to increase funding include restructuring the agency, a tobacco tax increase and cutting optional services.

updated 7:33am by Chris Rees