Write an Op-Ed
An Op-Ed is a powerful way to help inform and educate the public about the vital role that Medicaid plays in the lives of people with disabilities. When you submit a letter to your local newspaper you help members of your community understand how a complicated policy would actually affect the lives of people they know. Share a personal story about how Medicaid helps you or someone you know live and how your or their life would be impacted by cuts to Medicaid.
3. What to Say
Personal Story
Personal stories are the most effective form of advocacy. Talk about why is Medicaid important to you.
- If you or a family member are on Medicaid (including a waiver), what are the most important services to you? What difference has that made in yours and/or your family members lives?
- Access to critical healthcare or therapies
- Ability to receive in-home supports, residential supports or live independently
- Ability to work or go to a day program (so your family can work)
- What was your and/or your family members lives like before receiving Medicaid services?
- Are you or a family member on a waitlist for Medicaid services? How would getting services make a difference in your lives?
Please follow and like us:
Talking Points
- 10 million people with disabilities rely on Medicaid for critical services that help them live and participate in their community.
- Many people with disabilities are unaware that the services they receive are part of Medicaid. Services funded through Medicaid may be called something else in your state. If you’re a person with a disability and you receive any community-based support, its very likely through Medicaid.
- Eg: nursing and personal care services, specialized therapies, intensive mental health services, special education services, employment supports, and other needed services that are unavailable through private insurance.
- Cuts to Medicaid would force states to reduce services, cut optional services, restrict eligibility, and increase waiting lists.
- The home and community based services (HCBS) on which people with disabilities rely to live and participate in their communities are especially at risk because they are optional and could be completely eliminated.
- People with disabilities will be disproportionally harmed by Medicaid cuts. Services and supports for people with disabilities makes up a significant part of state Medicaid budgets due to their long term care needs.
- Tell your member of Congress to oppose any cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or other programs.
Please follow and like us:
Have you already written one? Let us know. We’d love to feature it on this site.
Please follow and like us: