Over the last several weeks, we have seen the consequences of a cut-now-ask-questions-later approach. Whether it is firing electric grid workers in the Northwest only to scramble to rehire them a few days later, firing those responsible for the care of our nuclear arsenal only to struggle to locate them a few days later, the termination of those who are trying to deal with avian flu while egg prices are skyrocketing, or any number of other agencies that are struggling to perform their most basic functions while politicians seek to cut without any thought to consequences. It is not just happening on the national level; it is happening right here in Idaho as well.
The Idaho legislature has decided that healthcare, something overwhelmingly approved by Idaho voters, is just not worth the cost. This is an odd take, since a recent study showed that Medicaid expansion has brought more economic value to the state than the so-called “savings” we’d see by getting rid of it.
Rural communities depend on Medicaid to provide the basic health infrastructure necessary to provide care for all patients in an area, even those with private insurance. According to a Georgetown research project, nearly 40% of rural Idahoans depend on Medicaid and other government insurance programs for their healthcare. That means that rural healthcare clinics and hospitals depend on Medicaid for a large portion of their revenue. Without it, they would not be able to justify staying open. When the clinics close, that means that there is no healthcare option for anyone in the area, even those with private insurance. Quite simply, Medicaid expansion is a critical component to make sure that ALL IDAHOANS have access to the care that they need.
Healthcare coverage is expensive. There is no doubt about it. Many families, without Medicaid, simply could not afford it. When forced to choose between health insurance and rent, people are going to choose rent. This means that there is less of a focus on preventative care and more of a focus on emergency care. Even if you do not have insurance, you can show up at the emergency room, and they will treat you. This puts extra pressure on emergency care, reducing access for everyone. It also means that care for chronic illnesses has to be set aside, and at the end of the day, it is nearly impossible for the working poor to get ahead as they are often buried in medical debt.
I am not the only one who recognizes these challenges. Over 60% of Idahoans agree, which is why they implemented Medicaid expansion in the first place. Even business leaders agree. The Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce recently released a strong statement of support for Medicaid expansion.
If the majority of Idahoans support Medicaid expansion and the business community supports Medicaid expansion than who is the Idaho Legislature representing? Certainly not us.
David Roth is a local nonprofit expert and Idaho’s national committeeman to the Democratic National Committee.