Medicaid cuts could hurt older adults who rely on home care, nursing homes

Dr. Fred Levin, who manages care for approximately 100 older adults at the Community PACE center in rural Newaygo, Michigan, is increasingly alarmed by the national discussions regarding potential federal cuts to Medicaid. He highlights that for his patients, Medicaid is not merely a safety net, but often a matter of life or death, enabling them to receive essential medical and social services. If funding is cut, Levin fears the center may have to close, as services provided by PACE centers are not mandated by federal law, unlike traditional nursing home care. The ongoing debate in Congress has raised concerns among doctors, lawmakers, and advocates, with proposals to slash billions from Medicaid funding in an effort to offset proposed tax cuts.

This could lead to significant financial burdens on state budgets, potentially forcing lawmakers to restrict health benefits. Nearly a fifth of Americans depend on Medicaid, making the ramifications of these cuts far-reaching. Levin urges individuals to consider the personal impact of Medicaid funding, as many in Michigan are directly affected. The discussion highlights a divided front among Republicans, with some advocating for cuts while others, like Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, oppose them.