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Possible cuts to Medicaid would hurt many AR families

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Monday, January 20, 2025   

A study by the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families shows most people who live in small towns and rural areas use Medicaid for health care coverage.

According to the report, rural communities use Medicaid more than people in metro areas. Members of Congress are considering cuts to Medicaid.

Camille Richoux, health policy director for Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, said if cuts are made, more than 70% of Arkansans would be affected.

"About 22% of adults who live in rural areas or small towns are insured through Medicaid, and about 51% of rural kids get their health coverage through Medicaid," Richoux reported.

Arkansas is one of six states across the U.S. where at least half of children living outside of metro areas are covered by Medicaid.

Richoux pointed out rural Arkansans already face challenges getting assistance needed in many areas and adds Medicaid funding affects more than doctor's visits and medications.

"There isn't a place in the health system that Medicaid doesn't touch that wouldn't be devastated by cuts to Medicaid," Richoux contended. "It's not just health care, but it's also the workforce. If you're a nurse in a small town and your hospital closes, you've also lost a job and that small town has also lost part of its workforce."

Joan Alker, executive director of the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families, said lawmakers need to realize the benefits of keeping Medicaid intact.

"In the long term, it's a much better investment of taxpayer dollars, because it'll pay dividends to make sure that these families are getting the care they need," Alker argued.

Disclosure: The Georgetown University Center for Children and Families contributes to our fund for reporting on Children's Issues, and Health Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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