Legislative Changes Impacting Medicaid and Medicare: A Call to Action
In July, the insurance industry acknowledges notable anniversaries, such as the establishment of Medicare, Medicaid, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This month also marks the first anniversary of H.R. 1, a legislative measure that substantially reduced Medicaid funding, the largest cut in its sixty-year history, impacting Medicare and Medicaid coverage for particular immigrant populations.
These recent legislative changes raise concerns about the future sustainability of Medicaid programs, with significant implications for senior services and disability support systems. This has sparked scrutiny over home-based care expenses and the rights of these populations under the ADA to receive integrated services.
Advocacy for Healthcare Defense
Justice in Aging reaffirms its dedication to advocating for Medicaid, Medicare, and the rights of senior citizens and people with disabilities. Industry stakeholders are encouraged to utilize resources designed to strengthen healthcare defense efforts.
Furthermore, over 100 Democratic members of the House have urged the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to reconsider a policy that might dilute housing protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. HUD's proposed modifications to the Equal Access Rule could lead to different treatment for transgender individuals, affecting housing access among LGBTQ+ communities.
Justice in Aging opposes these proposed changes, emphasizing potential adverse effects on LGBTQ+ seniors and individuals with disabilities. They have submitted detailed feedback advocating for fortified protections and programs for these vulnerable groups.
A recent Urban Institute report highlights that over a third of adults aged 60 and above encountered difficulties in securing basic necessities such as food, housing, or healthcare last year. Older adults, especially those from minority backgrounds or with disabilities, face higher risks of material hardship. Many depend on programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to alleviate these challenges.
Insurance professionals are encouraged to consult Justice in Aging’s brief for comprehensive insights into the role of these safety net programs in supporting the well-being of older adults.