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OP-ED: Indiana’s Medicaid Cuts Are a Cruel Blow to Caregivers and Vulnerable Families

21 Jan 2025 6:00 PM | Lashell Daniels (Administrator)

From Pastor John E. Girton, Jr.

Governor Mike Braun’s recent directive to halt Medicaid service advertising in Indiana is a troubling development for many families, especially those like mine who are part of the “sandwich generation,” caring for both children and aging parents. This policy not only threatens the health security of vulnerable populations but also exacerbates the challenges faced by caregivers of dementia patients.

In Indiana, Medicaid serves as a critical lifeline for numerous residents, particularly within marginalized communities. Data indicates that Black and Hispanic/Latino Hoosiers are disproportionately represented among Medicaid enrollees. According to the Indiana Medicaid Enrollment Dashboard, these communities rely heavily on Medicaid for their healthcare needs. Curtailing outreach and advertising efforts is likely to deepen existing disparities, leaving many without essential health coverage.

The burden on family caregivers in Indiana is substantial. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that 216,000 family caregivers in the state provide unpaid care to individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, amounting to 322 million hours of care valued at $5.1 billion. This immense responsibility often leads to emotional, physical, and financial strain.

My personal journey mirrors these statistics. A year ago, my father, who suffers from dementia, was dropped from Medicaid. This loss of coverage forced me to leave a six-figure job to care for him full-time, as his memory care costs exceeded our financial means. Balancing his care with the needs of my high school-aged child has been an overwhelming challenge. The lack of Medicaid support has not only strained our finances but also taken a toll on our mental and emotional well-being.

Governor Braun’s approach to reducing Medicaid enrollment by stopping advertising and tightening eligibility criteria fails to consider the real-life implications for families like mine. Instead of making cuts, the administration should focus on understanding and addressing the needs of the growing population of aging Hoosiers. This includes tackling the high costs of services and supplies essential for dementia care. Removing health resources from those who need them most is not a solution; it is a step backward that will only increase the burden on families and the healthcare system.

It is imperative that policymakers recognize the invaluable role of Medicaid in supporting caregivers and their loved ones. By ensuring access to necessary services and support, we can uphold the health and dignity of all Indiana residents, regardless of their economic status or racial background.

Pastor G



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