Medicaid Under Threat: Millions of americans Face Potential Healthcare Cuts
Table of Contents
- 1. Medicaid Under Threat: Millions of americans Face Potential Healthcare Cuts
- 2. The Human Cost of Potential Cuts
- 3. Medicaid and CHIP: A Safety Net for Millions
- 4. The Impact on Immigrant Communities
- 5. Concerns for Individuals with Disabilities
- 6. A Call to Action
- 7. What are the primary concerns surrounding proposed changes to Medicaid programs, and what groups are likely to be most affected?
- 8. Medicaid Under Threat: An Interview with Healthcare Policy Expert, Dr. Evelyn Reed
- 9. Interview
As debates over federal and state budgets intensify, the future of Medicaid and CHIP hangs in the balance,
leaving millions of Americans, notably in vulnerable communities, worried about losing access to vital
healthcare services.
The Human Cost of Potential Cuts
For many low-income individuals and families across the United States, Medicaid and the Children’s Health
Insurance Programme (CHIP) are lifelines. These programs provide access to essential medical care that would
otherwise be unaffordable. but with potential budget cuts looming,the anxiety is palpable.
Kelly Smith, a 57-year-old New Yorker and member of the Nonviolent Medicaid Army (NVMA), voices the
fears of many. The NVMA is a grassroots movement advocating for the protection of Medicaid and the recognition
of healthcare as a human right.
The need for health care unites us all,Kelly Smith told
Smith,a breast cancer survivor with severe scoliosis and other chronic conditions,relies on Medicaid for
her medications and pain management. For her, the potential loss of coverage is terrifying.
Right now, I’m terrified of losing Medicaid and being unable to get injections for pain control. They’reSmith explained.
the only thing that makes it possible for me to be on my game,
The NVMA is actively fighting back, organizing call-in days and attending town halls to share their stories
with lawmakers and emphasize the importance of Medicaid in their lives.
We’re organizing call-in days to tell lawmakers our stories and let them know the value of Medicaid in ourSmith said.
lives. we’re also attending town halls,
Smith also stresses the importance of destigmatizing poverty and disability in the healthcare debate.
We have to eliminate the shame associated with disability and poverty,Smith noted.
Medicaid and CHIP: A Safety Net for Millions
Established in 1965 as part of the “war on poverty,” Medicaid has grown into a vital safety net covering
millions of Americans. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Medicaid currently covers 72.1
million people.CHIP extends coverage to children in families with incomes too high for Medicaid but too low
for private insurance, serving over 7 million children as of October 2024.
According to KFF, in 2023, 41 percent of births were financed by Medicaid
. Additionally, the association
reports that around 1 in 6 adults aged 19-64, 2 in 3 nursing home residents and 1 in 3 adults with
disabilities got their health care through a Medicaid program.
Together, Medicaid and CHIP provide healthcare to more than 79 million U.S. residents. While the programs
vary by state, they ensure that low-income individuals and families have access to essential medical services.
But this coverage comes at a significant cost. The government spent over $860 billion on Medicaid programs
between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, excluding administrative costs.
| Category | Number of People Covered | Percentage of Population |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid | 72.1 million | 22% of U.S. Population |
| CHIP | 7 million | 2% of U.S. Population |
| Births Financed by Medicaid (2023) | N/A | 41% of all births |
| Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation) | ||
The Impact on Immigrant Communities
The potential Medicaid cuts are particularly concerning for immigrant communities. Paula A. Arboleda,director
of health advocacy at Bronx Legal Services,highlights the chilling effect of immigration crackdowns and budget
cutbacks.
During the pandemic, no one had to renew their coverage, but that policy has ended, and every MedicaidArboleda explained.
recipient now has to complete a nine-page renewal form. There is an online portal, or people can mail the form
in, but we’re seeing a lot of noncitizens who are afraid to do this,
Many noncitizens fear enrolling their U.S.citizen children in Medicaid or CHIP due to misunderstandings about
the public charge rule, which only applies to benefits received by noncitizens themselves, not as a payee for
their children. This fear is amplified by the uncertainty surrounding budget negotiations.
Concerns for Individuals with Disabilities
The proposed changes also raise significant concerns for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Rachelle Kivanoski, a parent from Brooklyn, new York, whose 42-year-old son with an intellectual disability
lives in a group home, worries about potential program closures or service reductions.
The expectation is that something truly catastrophic will happen. So many services are provided by Medicaid
here in New York — community day programs,group homes,employment projects,
Kivanoski told.
Advocates and families are mobilizing,attending demonstrations,signing petitions,and contacting lawmakers at
all levels of government to protect these vital services.
A Call to Action
Kelly Smith of the Nonviolent Medicaid Army emphasizes the urgency of the situation.
The time is now. Unfortunately, Medicaid usually does not get talked about unless it’s under attack. We aimSmith stated.
to change that and create long-term solutions by developing leaders among those who are directly impacted by
the policies being considered. We all deserve health care. As poor and working-class people, we’re sick of
being treated as if we don’t matter,
The debate over Medicaid and CHIP is not just about numbers; it’s about real people and their access to
healthcare. As budget negotiations continue, the voices of those who rely on these programs must be heard.
What are the primary concerns surrounding proposed changes to Medicaid programs, and what groups are likely to be most affected?
Medicaid Under Threat: An Interview with Healthcare Policy Expert, Dr. Evelyn Reed
As debates over federal and state budgets intensify, the future of Medicaid and CHIP hangs in the balance, leaving millions of Americans, notably those in vulnerable communities, worried about losing access to vital healthcare services.
Archyde News is pleased to present an exclusive interview with healthcare policy expert, Dr. evelyn Reed, to shed light on the potential impacts of proposed cuts.
Interview
Archyde News: Dr. Reed, thank you for joining us. could you briefly describe the scope of Medicaid and CHIP and who these programs primarily serve?
dr.Reed: Thank you for having me. Medicaid and CHIP are crucial programs providing healthcare coverage to over 79 million people in the U.S. Medicaid, established in 1965, primarily serves low-income individuals and families, including children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.CHIP, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, extends coverage to children in families with incomes too high for Medicaid but too low for private insurance.
Archyde News: We’re hearing a lot about potential cuts. What are the primary concerns surrounding these proposed changes to Medicaid programs, and what groups are likely to be most affected?
Dr. Reed: The concerns are multifaceted. Cuts could limit access to essential medical services, from doctor visits to life-saving treatments. Vulnerable populations, including low-income families, individuals with disabilities, and immigrant communities,will bear the brunt of any reductions. Such as, potential cuts could affect the availability of services like community day programs and group homes for those with disabilities.
Archyde News: The article notes that Medicaid covers a meaningful portion of births. How impactful would cuts be for maternal and infant health?
Dr. Reed: Absolutely. Medicaid finances a significant percentage of births—41% in 2023. The ramifications of cuts could be severe. Fewer resources would diminish access to prenatal care and postpartum services,perhaps leading to higher rates of complications for both mothers and infants.
Archyde News: what alternatives can be considered to reduce the cost of Medicaid?
Dr. Reed: Several alternative strategies are available. One is to negotiate drug prices directly with pharmaceutical companies, which could create ample savings. Furthermore, investing in preventive care and chronic-disease management could reduce long-term healthcare costs. Improving care coordination and reducing administrative burdens could also free up resources.
Archyde News: Immigration crackdowns are concerning, especially when combined with the potential cutting back of Medicaid. What specific challenges might immigrant communities face, and how might these factor into future utilization?
Dr. Reed: the effects could be extensive, given the recent changes.Families may avoid enrolling their US citizen children in Medicaid due to public charge rule concerns. These choices can affect both immediate and long-term healthcare usage.
Archyde News: Some reports suggest that the Trump management might implement cuts to Medicaid. Based on your information, how might these cuts affect current events?
Dr.Reed: If implemented under a potential second-term Trump administration, these cuts could affect 79 million Americans. Cuts of around $880 billion might be required to free up funds. This could lead to a substantial reduction in services.
Archyde News: Public awareness is obviously key.What specific actions can individuals and families take to advocate for the protection of Medicaid and CHIP?
Dr. Reed: Contacting your elected officials is crucial. Sharing personal stories about how Medicaid and CHIP have impacted lives is also very effective. Supporting organizations that advocate for Medicaid and CHIP is another impactful move. Lastly, it’s about raising awareness in your communities and educating others about the importance of these programs.
archyde News: Given everything we’ve discussed, what is the single most critical takeaway for our readers?
Dr. Reed: That the future of Medicaid and CHIP impacts millions of lives. These are not just numbers in a budget; they represent real people who depend on these programs for their health and well-being. The decisions made today will determine the health of vulnerable populations, children, and elderly individuals who stand in line. This can be felt by society at large. Engage, inform yourselves, and make your voices heard.
Archyde News: Thank you, Dr. Reed, for your insights.
Dr. Reed: My pleasure.
