Congress Proposes $880 Billion Medicaid Cuts, Raising Access Concerns

Congress is considering an $880 billion reduction in Medicaid funding, which could significantly impact the public health insurance program covering nearly 80 million Americans, including a majority of children. This proposal includes potential policy changes such as work reporting requirements that may further limit access to coverage despite most Medicaid beneficiaries already being employed or engaged in caregiving or education.

Health experts emphasize that substantial cuts and restrictions could disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, seniors, and individuals with chronic conditions, leading to decreased access to preventative care, routine visits, vaccinations, and timely diagnoses.