Accepting federal funds would help our most vulnerable citizens, as well as struggling hospitals. Research shows there would be a net financial gain, so the argument that our state can't afford it doesn't make sense. Please reverse course on this and expand Medicaid to include families who need it most.
Why is this important?
Our organization works with families who are under stress and living in poverty. We strive to help them become the best parents they can be so the next generation can be contributing members of society. Unfortunately, positive parenting is difficult to embrace when basic needs aren't being met, many of which are mental health needs and/or untreated chronic physical illness. If these parents do receive treatment, it plunges them into inescapable debt, which perpetuates poverty and stress. Help has been offered as part of the Affordable Care Act. All we have to do is accept it.
