$880 billion in Medicaid cuts could impact millions, including majority of children

As Congress considers slashing $880 billion from Medicaid, health advocates across the country — including the American Lung Association — are warning of devastating consequences for millions of Americans who rely on the public health insurance program.

Medicaid, which includes the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), is the largest public health insurance provider in the country. It currently covers nearly 80 million Americans, including a majority of the nation’s children. In New York alone, over 2.5 million children are enrolled in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Massachusetts and Vermont also report high enrollment numbers among children under 19.

Dr. Christy Sadreameli, a pediatric pulmonologist with the American Lung Association, says the proposed cuts would hit vulnerable populations the hardest, including pregnant women, seniors, and individuals living with chronic lung conditions.

“When you cut Medicaid, whether by placing restrictions or just by reducing the funding in major ways, people are going to get dropped off,” said Dr. Sadreameli. “Preventative care, routine clinical visits, vaccinations, medications — these are all key. And without coverage, people with lung cancer may not get diagnosed until it’s too late.”

In addition to cuts, lawmakers are also weighing policies like work reporting requirements, which experts warn could further restrict access. Despite the claims behind such policies, 92% of adults under 65 on Medicaid are already working, in school, caregiving, or unable to work due to health conditions, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Advocates warn that if enacted, these cuts could lead to:

• Fewer children are receiving regular check-ups or sick visits
  
• Loss of long-term care for seniors
  
• Pregnant women are losing access to prenatal care
  
• Delayed diagnoses and treatments for severe conditions like lung cancer and COPD
  
• Decreased access to vaccinations and screenings
  

Health advocates are urging anyone who relies on Medicaid to contact their local representatives and voice their concerns as the debate over the proposed cuts continues on Capitol Hill.