Medicaid is an essential part of American health care. It provides access to and helps improve the health and financial security of millions of the most vulnerable Americans every day, including more than 2 million veterans, more than 40 million children, older adults, and people with disabilities. From preventive care and annual check-ups to long-term services and supports (LTSS), the program delivers high-quality health care services to Americans when they need it most. In fact, the vast majority of those enrolled in Medicaid report having regular access to the care they need. Below are stories demonstrating how Medicaid helps Americans lead happier and healthier lives.
Children
Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide an essential safety net for more than 40 million children. The program covers about 4 in 10 births nationwide, as well as a range of other essential care and services that keep children healthy.
For children like Bailee Walker, Medicaid ensures she can access the specialists and care she needs to thrive in school and at home.
Learn more from Iowa ACES 360 Advocacy Network Director Mary Nelle Trefz about Medicaid’s impact on children.
Veterans
Today, 2 million veterans rely on Medicaid as a safety net. While veterans are offered coverage for a range of health care services through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), many veterans live too far from VA facilities to access necessary services. This is especially true for veterans who live in rural communities. Quint Nyman is one of these veterans. Living in Montana, Quint relies on Medicaid for closer proximity to the health care he needs.
People with Disabilities
Millions of Americans need consistent and reliable health services and supports — such as home and community-based services and LTSS — because of a disability or chronic illness. Medicaid helps Americans of all ages who live with a disability access these essential services.
Alyson Ball’s son is one of these Americans. Medicaid helps him manage his cerebral palsy so he can continue to pursue his passions.
Learn more from Coalition for Texans with Disabilities Deputy Executive Director Chase Bearden about Medicaid’s enormous role for the disability community.
Rural Communities
Medicaid is critical to ensuring affordable, high-quality health coverage for millions of Americans living in rural areas. Rural communities often experience health care access challenges and as a result face significant health disparities, exacerbated by COVID-19. Learn more about how Medicaid supports access to care in rural areas from Common Good senior policy advocate Kelli Soyer.
These stories are just a few examples of the essential health care coverage that Medicaid provides. Stories like this demonstrate why 88% of Americans believe it’s important to have a strong, sustainable Medicaid program.
The Modern Medicaid Alliance, alongside our partners, understands the crucial role the program plays. Together, we are dedicated to protecting and strengthening the Medicaid program.
To hear from more Americans about how Medicaid helps them live healthier lives, see our stories.