Congress is considering the largest cuts to Medicaid in the program’s history. Medicaid helps ensure that children and youth in foster care can access comprehensive health benefits to treat physical health issues and chronic conditions, as well as behavioral and mental health care.
Cuts to Medicaid would have devastating consequences for Pennsylvania’s foster children and youth. Of all children in PA-11, 30% rely on Medicaid.
Rep. Lloyd Smucker voted to cut Medicaid.
As families grapple with the rising costs of everyday expenses, it’s more important than ever that they have access to high-quality, affordable health care for both physical and mental health.
One Family’s Story
Cindy and Matt Jennings, Lititz, PA
Cindy lives with her son, Matt, who has multiple significant disabilities. Matthew receives in-home services through Medicaid, which enable him to live independently, communicate effectively, and maintain a good quality of life. Matthew currently volunteers at four different places, with the help of support staff, and uses a device provided by Medicaid to communicate.
“I never thought about Medicaid. Ever. I graduated from college, worked, got married, and started a family, and planned to buy a home. When our first child was diagnosed with multiple disabilities, however, everything changed. Our son qualified for Medicaid at birth due to his diagnosis.”
Over the years, Medicaid has covered medical treatment, durable medical equipment, occupational, physical, and speech therapy, as well as dental care, medications, and other related expenses. Cindy says, “Medicaid saved our family.”
Years ago, her husband left her after 25 years of marriage, leaving her without an income or health insurance. At the time, Cindy was the sole caregiver for Matt and his brother. She was unable to purchase insurance through the marketplace because she didn’t qualify for subsidies, and her caregiving responsibilities made it impossible for her to find employment. Soon after, Cindy got insurance through Medicaid Expansion. Having coverage allowed her to get a colonoscopy, where they found and removed two precancerous polyps. After the test, the doctor looked her in the eyes and said, “It’s really good you came in when you did.”
If they lost Medicaid, both of their coverage would be at risk. Matt requires medications to keep him healthy, as well as medical supplies. Medicaid funds Cindy’s job, and she also requires medications to keep her healthy.
The elimination of health care benefits will have immediate adverse effects on the health and well-being of the children and families who depend on them.
Because one child without health insurance is too many.
We cannot afford the largest cuts in the history of the Medicaid program.
To learn more, check out these resources: Medicaid and CHIP enrollment fact sheets and the State of Children’s Health in Pennsylvania.
