Medicaid Is A Health Safety Net Program - 1789 Words

Introduction Medicaid is a health safety net program that was enacted to provide health care coverage to qualifying members of the population with low incomes and has become one of the largest payers for health care in the United States. In 2010, the Medicaid program was responsible for providing health services to over eight million women and covered over forty percent of all births. This gives Medicaid the distinction of being the majority payer for all maternity services in the United States. Despite the popularity of Medicaid and the proven need for medical services, the recipients of Medicaid are often saddled with stigma for receiving benefits. Negative connotations regarding Medicaid recipients were exacerbated in the 1970’s†¦show more content†¦Contrary to this opinion, others, including myself, believe that Medicaid expansion is not only necessary but imperative as it improves the health of mothers and children who are then more likely to become productive taxpayers that contribute to society. In addition to the health benefits, Medicaid expansion will most likely result in a cost savings for the states. A cost savings that would be realized by reducing the number of uninsured, the addition of healthcare related jobs and reduced patient loads at community sponsored free clinics. Background On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the bill that led to the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid is a social protection program that was enacted to provide medical assistance to United States citizens who meet certain eligibility requirements and is jointly operated by the Federal and State government. Although each state is responsible for operating its own Medicaid system, it must comply with established Federal guidelines in order to receive matching funds. In the United States, approximately thirty percent of all children utilize the Medicaid program and that percentage doubles for children who are impoverished. As of 2015, approximately 70 million people are currently enrolled in Medicaid, which has an annual budget of half a billion dollars. Participants covered under the Medicaid system are eligible to