Provide names of other journalists involved.
Tom Humphrey
List date(s) this work was published or aired.
April 3, 2011; July 4, 2011; Aug. 30, 2011; Nov. 20, 2011
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
These stories sought to help readers understand the effects of changes to state policies regarding our Medicaid program (TennCare) and other government programs. We hoped to give context to these changes and allow readers to see how the changes would affect people in their own communities.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
In addition to using Internet resources, I requested a number of items from the state, including budgetary documents, TennCare patient numbers (and breakdowns) and analyses. I also asked the families quoted in the stories to provide documents to substantiate their situations. In the case of the Lakeshore stories, I also requested copies of some previous legislation (pre-Web archive) to try to ascertain whether some precedents had been set.
Explain types of human sources used.
I interviewed individuals and families affected by changes; professionals both in and out of government who worked with them; policymakers; state employees; and community members and advocates.
Results:
Each story at least had the effect of starting a public conversation about the changes and putting them into context, and many of the families or people in the stories did receive help, either through the community or by policymakers making changes that aided their situations.
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
Not that I’m aware of.
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
I did a lot of background research to thoroughly familiarize myself with the history and workings of the programs before I approached government officials for interviews. I’d also advise, when putting a “face” on such stories, to ask the families for documentation as much as possible, including medical records and permission to speak with health professionals and case workers working with them.