Medicaid on the Chopping Block: Will Your Health Insurance Survive?

2025-02-27 08:05:35.053

The ongoing debate surrounding budget bills in the US Congress could significantly impact Americans' lives. House Republicans aim to extend trillions in expiring tax cuts, requiring offsetting cuts, potentially reaching $880 billion from federal programs over 10 years. Medicaid is a prime target for these cuts. While Republicans, including Senator Josh Hawley, express support for the program, particularly for working individuals, the proposed cuts raise concerns. President Trump, despite past assurances against cutting Medicaid, Medicare, or Social Security, has left room for fraud reduction. Medicaid, a crucial component of the US social safety net, provides health insurance to over 72 million low-income Americans, covering children, seniors, people with disabilities, and parents. Coverage and eligibility vary widely across states. Federal and state governments jointly fund Medicaid, with federal matching varying by state. The program's cost totaled $880 billion in fiscal year 2023. Proposed cuts could involve work requirements, reducing the federal match for expansion populations, and implementing per capita caps. These cuts could lead to millions losing coverage. While there have been efforts to address wasteful spending, the program's popularity remains high, with over three-quarters of Americans holding a favorable view.