Repealing Medicaid expansion under H138 would significantly impact children and families in Idaho, particularly those who rely on the program for essential healthcare.
Here's how the repeal could affect children:
1. Reduced Access to Healthcare for Low-Income Families
Many children in Idaho receive healthcare through Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which is supported by Medicaid expansion. Without Medicaid expansion, families might struggle to afford medical care, leading to delayed or forgone treatment for children.
2. Increased Health Risks
Preventive care services like vaccinations, well-child visits, and screenings could become inaccessible for families who lose coverage. This could lead to increased rates of childhood illnesses, undiagnosed conditions, and worsening health outcomes.
3. Impact on Behavioral Health Services
A significant number of Medicaid recipients in Idaho rely on the program for behavioral and mental health services. Children with serious mental health needs may lose access to counseling, therapy, and other critical resources, impacting their development and well-being.
4. Financial Hardship for Families
Medicaid provides a safety net for families during hard times, covering expenses that would otherwise lead to medical debt or bankruptcy. Repealing expansion would remove this protection, forcing families to choose between health care and other necessities like food, housing, or transportation.
5. Strained Education and Social Systems
Poor health among children can negatively affect school performance and attendance. Educators may also face challenges supporting students with unmet health needs, putting further pressure on schools and community resources.
6. Worsened Health Disparities
Medicaid expansion helps reduce disparities in access to healthcare for low-income and minority families. Repealing it would disproportionately harm vulnerable populations, increasing health inequities in Idaho.
Broader Implications:
The economic benefits of Medicaid expansion indirectly support families and children by strengthening local economies, creating jobs, and generating state and local tax revenue. A repeal would undermine these benefits, potentially reducing funding for schools, social services, and community programs that support children.
Overall, the repeal of Medicaid expansion under H138 would undermine the health, stability, and future potential of many children in Idaho, creating ripple effects that extend far beyond individual families.