August 13, John Daley with Colorado Public Radioprinted a bit on KFF Well being Information concerning the ripple results of Medicaid cuts in rural Colorado communities. Throughout the state, Medicaid covers one in 5 Coloradans, greater than one million individuals, together with kids in foster care, Daley famous.
In Alamosa County, Daley reported that two in 5 residents are enrolled in Well being First Colorado, the state’s Medicaid program. It serves as a lifeline, particularly for individuals who wouldn’t in any other case have quick access to healthcare. This contains low-income seniors needing supplemental protection alongside Medicare, and other people of all ages with disabilities. Envisioning a future with vital Medicaid cutbacks leaves many sufferers fearful.
For instance, Daley talked about that the hospital in Alamosa has its personal labor and supply unit. About 85 p.c of the hospital’s labor and supply sufferers are coated by Medicaid. Sure medical specialties could not be out there, and a few nursing properties could have to be closed, Daley reported.
Republicans in Congress who pushed for the massive spending and tax legislation, which estimates counsel will lead to massive cuts to Medicaid, say they wish to lower your expenses and make the federal government extra environment friendly. Daley famous that many within the Alamosa County area voted for Donald Trump. Medicaid cuts might have an effect on the voter base dramatically. “Any Medicaid cuts would hit the well being system exhausting, however they might additionally have an effect on small companies and their workers. The area is feeling financial stress from different modifications, like current cuts the Trump administration made to the federal workforce,” Daley reported.
