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Medicaid is a Lifeline
For thousands of Pennsylvanians with disabilities, Medicaid isn’t just a program—it’s the foundation of their health, independence, and well-being. It provides essential medical care, long-term services, and community support that allows individuals to live with dignity and autonomy. Without Medicaid, many would face insurmountable barriers to accessing the care they need.
Why Medicaid Matters
Medicaid delivers critical benefits to Pennsylvanians with disabilities, including:
Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Doctor visits, hospital care, medications, and therapies.
Long-Term Services & Supports – Personal care, home health aides, and assistive technology that help individuals live at home and stay connected to their communities.
Community-Based Services – Employment programs, transportation, and support services that foster independence and inclusion.
The Impact of the Big Beautiful Bill
New Work Requirements
Most adults aged 19–64 must now complete 80 hours/month of work, job training, or volunteering to keep Medicaid. People with disabilities not receiving SSI or SSDI may struggle to prove exemptions and risk losing coverage.
Frequent Re-Verification
Eligibility reviews now happen every 6 months instead of annually.
Increases chances of coverage loss due to missed paperwork—especially for people managing complex health conditions.
Retroactive Medicaid Coverage Is Reduced
Medicaid will now only cover 1–2 months back instead of 3, even during emergencies. This change could leave people with disabilities uninsured during hospitalizations or health crises.
Higher Costs for Low-Income Enrollees
New co-pays up to $35 per service for those just above the poverty line.
Cuts to State Funding for Disability Services
States will lose key tools (like provider taxes) used to fund HCBS, nursing homes, and specialized clinics. Could lead to waitlists, closures, or fewer options for care.
Possible Changes to Home & Community-Based Services (HCBS)
With federal funding reduced, states like PA may cut back or cap HCBS waivers, which help people live independently. This could impact the ability of people with disabilities to avoid institutional care.
Fewer Resources for Nonprofit Disability Providers
Restrictions on Medicaid funds for certain nonprofits may reduce support for centers for independent living, respite care, and advocacy networks.
Mental Health Services at Risk: Changes to Medicaid under the Big Beautiful Bill—such as new work requirements, shorter retroactive coverage, increased cost-sharing, and reduced state funding—could disrupt access to counseling, therapy, crisis care, and community-based mental health supports, especially for individuals with low income or disabilities.
Info to Help You Take Action
The ‘Big Beautiful Bill’: An Overview
Medicaid vs. Medicare: A National Comparison Chart
Medicaid vs. Medicare in Pennsylvania Comparison Chart
Medicaid in PA PDF
Medicaid and People with Disabilities PDF
Medicaid in Schools PDF
Rural Communities and Medicaid
Take Action Today
1st Step: Download the 5 Calls Phone App – Quickly and easily contact your legislators to make your voice heard.
2nd Step: Schedule a Call with Your Congress Members – Work with PHAN to speak directly with your representatives. Schedule a call here.
3rd Step: Join the #SaveMEdicaid25 Email List – Stay informed and get involved in advocacy efforts. Sign up here.
4th Step: Record Your Story – Share your experience and help protect Medicaid by telling your story. Schedule your recording.
5th Step: Write a Postcard – Show your support by sending a postcard to your Congressmember. Find their contact info at congress.gov/contact-us.
Every step counts—take action today!
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