ADA signs on to Medicaid and CHIP support letter

Programs provide ‘life-saving treatments,’ coalition says

The American Dental Association has signed on to a broad-based Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program support letter that highlights the essential role of these programs in providing health coverage to millions of Americans. 

The March 3 letter, organized by the Medicaid Health Plans of America, urges Congress to continue strengthening both programs in the years to come. Medicaid serves many vulnerable Americans, including those who struggle with substance use disorders, individuals with disabilities, who are blind and disabled, as well as mothers, children and low-income individuals. 

“Medicaid shines as a bright example of what can be accomplished when the federal government works with state partners to deliver for the American people,” states the letter. “The Medicaid program allows states the ability to tailor their programs to meet the needs of their unique populations, while creating efficiencies and innovations that might not be possible in other delivery systems.” 

The letter notes that more than 37 million children receive health coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, representing 47.4% of overall program enrollment. It also states that Medicaid’s early and periodic screening, diagnostic, and treatment benefit, which has garnered bipartisan support, provides children with critical behavioral health services and was recently strengthened by the Safer Communities Act. 

The letter cautions that interruptions in coverage make it difficult for those depending on Medicaid to maintain employment and stability, and that reductions in Medicaid funding could lead to hospital closures in rural and underserved areas.  

“Medicaid and [the Children’s Health Insurance Program] have historically received bipartisan support, and we respectfully encourage you to continue this tradition, in order to strengthen and enhance this vital program serving millions of Americans across the country,” states the letter. “We sincerely thank you for your consideration and remain available to work with you and your colleagues to continue to meet the needs of the American people through a flexible, accountable and efficient Medicaid program.”