United Spinal Association is asking wheelchair riders to share what Medicaid coverage means to them.
In a March 19 bulletin to stakeholders, United Spinal announced its new Medicaid Stories campaign, which the organization says is “centered on real-life experiences from the disability community. This campaign aims to educate the public, media and elected officials about proposed budget cuts’ real and devastating potential impact.”
“Medicaid is more than a lifeline for our community — it is what makes our lives possible,” said Steve Lieberman, United Spinal’s senior director, advocacy and policy. “From health care to transportation to the support services needed to contribute to the workforce, Medicaid is the key.”
United Spinal shared a story from Kristen J., a wheelchair rider in Texas. “If Medicaid is cut, it would jeopardize my ability to contribute as a taxpayer through my full-time job with the state,” Kristen said. “Medicaid cuts could mean I couldn’t afford my expensive medication or durable medical equipment that isn’t completely covered by my private health-care insurance. I would no longer be able to contribute to society because Medicaid cuts could affect my entire livelihood.”
“Stories like Kristen’s are too often untold, and it is up to us to bring greater understanding of the role Medicaid plays in our society,” Lieberman said.
The call for wheelchair riders’ personal accounts comes as members of President Donald Trump’s administration consider cutting billions of dollars from Medicaid funding.
“These stories capture how Medicaid cuts will result in a ripple effect that will contribute to ongoing instability in the labor market,” United Spinal said. “Community members testify to how Medicaid-paid personal care attendants are the key to keeping them in the workforce — and out of nursing homes.”
