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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Medicaid cuts could devastate rural MS, where nearly half rely on coverage

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Wednesday, January 22, 2025   

Mississippi's rural communities, home to nearly half the state's population, depend heavily on Medicaid to ensure access to health care and maintain vital infrastructure. A recent report from Georgetown University's Center for Children and Families underscores the disproportionate reliance on Medicaid in rural areas nationwide and warns of the severe consequences of proposed federal funding cuts.

In Mississippi, this reliance is particularly stark.

Linda Dixon, health law director at the Mississippi Center for Justice, points out that nearly 49% of children in rural areas are covered by Medicaid or CHIP, compared with 45% in urban areas. Additionally, 15% of rural adults rely on Medicaid, underscoring its critical role as a lifeline for thousands across the state.

"Medicaid cuts would affect everyone in our state, not just Mississippians with Medicaid, because without the vital funding that Medicaid brings, we'll see increased health-care costs for all Mississippi taxpayers, so that's something we have to take into consideration," she explained.

The report says to stay afloat, many rural hospitals have already been forced to close less profitable units. In 2022, 52% eliminated their maternity wards, compared with 36% of urban hospitals.

The report also reveals disparities, with about 40% of American Indian and Alaska Native people more likely to live in non-metro areas without access to adequate health care.

Joan Alker, executive director of the Center for Children and Families at Georgetown University and report lead author, said Medicaid helps recipients through much-needed preventive care.

"People wind up sicker and then they're in the emergency room, and children can't get their asthma inhalers and they miss school," Alker explained.

Statistics show Medicaid helps prevent medical debt, covers most nursing-home residents, and funds a significant portion of births and maternal care. Just over 50% of Mississippi's population lives in rural areas.

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


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