April is Medicaid Awareness Month and The Coalition to Strengthen America’s Healthcare applauds the hard work of our member hospitals, health systems, and over 2.6 million community members working together in the fight to protect Medicaid.
Medicaid covers over 72 million Americans, including millions of children, people with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and those with chronic conditions. Further, polling shows that eight in 10 Americans approve of Medicaid, and nearly 90% of Americans believe funding for the program should either be increased or remain at current levels.
Across the country, families, healthcare workers, and business leaders are all watching the current Congressional budget negotiations, concerned about what potential cuts will mean for access to high-quality care in their communities.
The Coalition continues to run a national ad campaign, Faces of Medicaid, that tells the story of the critical role Medicaid plays in providing crucial healthcare to tens of millions of Americans. Additionally, another national ad is running called Promises, which highlights President Trump’s comments reaffirming the Medicaid program will not be touched while calling on policymakers to protect the program from cuts.
The Coalition has been gathering patient stories on Medicaid’s impact on everyday Americans. These stories show how Medicaid provides critical healthcare coverage to children, ensures access to essential medical services and hospital treatments, and provides long-term care services for seniors.
Children:
“My daughter has chronic respiratory failure. She is dependent on continuous oxygen, uses a nebulizer, and has two inhalers. In addition to that, she takes multiple oral medicines. Without Medicaid we will be unable to pay for her care, which she literally depends on to breathe. Without care, she will die.” – Mary N., Marion, SC
Hospitals:
“Have had several hospital stays due to surgery from having osteoarthritis and other diagnoses. Looking at more surgical procedures in the near future… I couldn’t have had the help I have been having, for the past 10+ years, without Medicare or Medicaid.” – Chanda D., Placerville, CA
Seniors:
- “If I didn’t have Medicaid, I would no doubt be in a wheelchair or a nursing home. Having Medicaid allows me to see specialists to treat my condition, get the necessary medications to treat and keep my disability at a minimum. I am able to stay active within my community because I have Medicaid which helps me obtain what I need.” – Joyce W., Webster, NY
We want to hear from you! We encourage you to share your personal Medicaid story HERE.
Visit Protect Medicaid for American Families for additional Medicaid-specific information.
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