DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Some Iowa lawmakers have reiterated their skepticism that private health care companies are ready to take over the state’s $4.2 billion Medicaid program in a few weeks. Democrats and Republicans on the Health Policy Oversight Committee sought clarity Monday from representatives for the four private companies about the switch to managed care on Jan. 1. Some Democrats criticized the companies for not releasing more specific information about how many health care providers in the state have signed new contracts to provide Medicaid.

The representatives expressed confidence their companies are prepared. Medicaid provides care to low-income and needy people, including children and disabled individuals. The move to privatization hinges on approval from federal officials, some of whom will visit Iowa and meet with the private companies this week.