Children’s health care is at risk due to proposed budget cuts to Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program. These cuts would impact over 37 million children, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Alabama could lose over $800 million in federal Medicaid funding. Children living in poverty, with special needs, and in foster care would be disproportionately affected.
Per capita caps and reductions in federal funding would lead to rationed care and force states to make tough choices. Provider tax limits and work requirements would further undermine access to care, especially in rural areas. Rolling back enrollment protections could create new barriers for families. The proposed cuts are framed as cost-saving but would ultimately drive up expenses and widen health disparities.
Instead of cutting programs, advocates are calling for long-term investments in children’s health, such as making CHIP a permanent program and expanding access to pediatric mental health services. Protecting Medicaid and CHIP is seen as critical for children’s futures and the nation’s prosperity. The report warns that investing in children’s health is essential for their development and well-being. For more information, see the full report “Prescription for Disaster: The Impact of Proposed Medicaid and CHIP Cuts on Children’s Health” by First Focus on Children.
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