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Across Ascension's network of 105 hospitals and numerous clinics, healthcare providers repeatedly see the transformative effect of access to affordable health coverage on patients' lives, particularly benefiting those who depend on Medicaid. This coverage ensures that individuals who might otherwise avoid necessary care receive essential services, including preventive check-ups, maternal health treatment, cancer screenings, and chronic condition management.
As Washington, D.C. lawmakers debate potential significant reductions to Medicaid, understanding the broad implications on millions of Americans' access to healthcare is crucial. Currently, Medicaid supports over 72 million Americans, highlighting the diverse impact of such coverage across different patient experiences.
An older woman covered by Medicaid sought treatment at an Ascension facility for frequent seizures and significant mental health issues. Her complex care needs were met with a coordinated approach, including nursing, behavioral health support, and spiritual care. These services, under Medicaid's coverage, drastically reduced her hospitalizations and emergency visits, allowing for a more stable and independent life. Without Medicaid, such an outcome would have been unlikely.
Children, too, benefit significantly from Medicaid, as seen in the case of a young boy from a rural area who was treated for a severe brain obstructive mass. After displaying serious symptoms like headaches and vomiting, he received follow-up care at an Ascension emergency department. Medicaid covered vital tests that identified the life-threatening mass, requiring surgery and chemotherapy. With ongoing Medicaid coverage, the boy accessed necessary oncology and hematology care, aiding his recovery.
Another case demonstrates Medicaid's impact on maternal and infant health. A mother and her premature son, who was born with severe heart anomalies, benefited from Medicaid's continued support. The baby required intensive care in the NICU post-emergency C-section, while Medicaid also aided the mother's recovery by covering some transportation costs. Such coverage was crucial for safe transport to and from the hospital during her recovery. Between July 2020 and June 2024, Medicaid assisted Ascension in caring for 43.3% of its maternal health patients.
The narratives emphasize the importance of sustaining Medicaid, underscoring the potentially severe consequences should coverage be reduced. For many, delaying vital healthcare can escalate health issues, threatening their lives. Accordingly, ensuring full access to Medicaid remains essential to maintaining a robust healthcare system that delivers critical treatments and services.
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