In this episode, we examine the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) — one of the most significant cost drivers in county budgets. Listen as we trace the evolution from county-run indigent care to today’s statewide Medicaid-managed system, explain the funding formula that determines each county’s share, and discuss the current cost environment and its impact on county finances.

To learn more about counties and the long term care system, visit our website at https://www.countysupervisors.org/healthcare

To view our primer on ALTCS, click here.

April is National County Government Month!

Across Arizona, counties are on the front lines delivering essential services, supporting our communities, and keeping our state running every day. From public safety and infrastructure to elections and health services, the impact of county government reaches every resident. This month, we’re proud to partner with the National Association of Counties and the Arizona Association of Counties to elevate the work of counties here in Arizona.

Want to learn more about how counties serve you? Explore our resources on our website: https://www.countysupervisors.org/counties

Join us as we break down how Arizona fulfills the constitutional right to counsel—and why counties are at the center of delivering and funding indigent defense. Explore the history, structure, and real-world budget pressures behind public defense systems, and what a new statewide evaluation could mean for the future.

Check out our indigent defense overview and case study here

Learn more about Indigent Defense Funding across the country here