Protecting Medi-Cal: What Orange County Families and Health Leaders Want You to Know

A recent proposal to cut $880 billion in federal funding for Medicaid is stirring up serious concerns in California, particularly with the Medi-Cal program that plays a vital role in the lives of nearly 15 million people in the state. This program is essential for those with severe disabilities and chronic conditions, who rely on it for necessary medical and support services.

In Orange County, families are understandably worried. Medi-Cal covers over a million residents, including nearly half of all children and teens in the county. This safety net helps many families navigate medical challenges.

Seth R. Teigen, CEO of Providence Mission Hospital, voiced concerns about potential cuts. He explained that slashing funding for Medi-Cal could harm hospitals financially, leading to reduced services and increasing costs. “It’s crucial for our community’s health,” he stated.

Pediatrician Eric H. Ball from the Children’s Hospital of Orange County-Mission warned that cuts could create dire consequences for overall health, potentially leading to more medical bankruptcies and fewer specialists. “If we lose Medi-Cal benefits, it could be catastrophic,” he said. Reflecting on the past, Ball highlighted that during economic downturns, many families suddenly relied on Medi-Cal when they lost jobs. “For many parents, it became a critical support system,” he noted.

Take Kim and Joseph Hüber of Lake Forest, California, who are worried for their daughter Leah, a 19-year-old with Down syndrome and a severe form of epilepsy. Leah requires daily assistance for basic functions, and the family depends heavily on Medi-Cal to cover her medical needs. Without this support, Kim estimates their monthly expenses would soar to at least $10,000. A recent hospitalization for Leah could have left them in financial ruin if it weren’t for Medi-Cal. “We can’t imagine managing this without help,” said Kim.

Another local resident, Ruth Manzo, expressed similar fears. She has relied on Medi-Cal for 17 years to manage her diabetes and bipolar disorder. “I wouldn’t be alive without it,” she said, underscoring the life-saving nature of the program for vulnerable families.

Recent public opinion polls show strong support for programs like Medi-Cal. A KFF Health Tracking Poll revealed that just 17% of Americans favor cutting Medicaid spending, while most either want to maintain or increase funding. In California, over 80% believe Medi-Cal is crucial for the state’s well-being, and many oppose any funding reductions.

Teigen emphasized that Medi-Cal is not just a welfare program; it’s essential for children, veterans, mothers, and the elderly. During a recent town hall meeting, citizens gathered to share their worries and demand action against potential cuts.

Orange County residents are uniting to ensure their voices are heard. Kim Doyle, mother of a daughter with disabilities, stressed the importance of standing up for the community. “We can no longer be the invisible community. We need to shout out for our families’ needs,” she said.

With the stakes higher than ever, families and advocates are preparing to fight for the care that keeps their loved ones healthy and safe. “Medi-Cal is a lifeline,” said Doyle, “and we won’t let it be taken away.”

In these uncertain times, it’s clear that the battle for healthcare support is not just about funding; it’s about dignity, survival, and the right to care. For more insights on Medicaid’s impact on local economies, see this Commonwealth Fund study.

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