(July 9, 2007)--A federal judge approved a sweeping settlement Monday meant to improve access to medical care for more than two million poor children in Texas.

The agreement likely ends a 14-year-old lawsuit over children's Medicaid.

US District Judge William Wayne Justice approved the plan.

Legislators have already approved more than $700 million necessary to satisfy the terms of the agreement, including rate reimbursements to doctors and dentists.

The settlement also requires the state to hire more Medicaid caseworkers and improve transportation options to help parents get to medical appointments.

Efficiency of toll-free hot lines and availability of prescription drugs also would be revamped under the plan.

Most of the changes take effect Sept. 1.

The Texas Medical Association applauded the settlement.

“This settlement and legislative support strengthen physicians’ ability to preserve patient care and improve the health of Texans, especially those who need it most, our children,” said TMA President Dr. William Hinchey in a statement issued Monday evening.

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