In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we dive into the looming threats to Medicaid and what they could mean for individuals with developmental disabilities. With Republicans set to take control in Washington, disability advocates are raising alarms about proposals to reshape Medicaid through measures like block grants and work requirements. These changes could undermine the nation's system of home and community-based services (HCBS), leaving many vulnerable individuals and families without essential support.
We explore the potential impact of these proposals on a system already under strain. With nearly 700,000 people on waiting lists for Medicaid waivers and widespread staffing shortages in disability services, the stakes couldn't be higher. Our discussion highlights the stories and concerns of advocates like Nicole Jorwic and Kim Musheno, who are fighting to preserve and strengthen Medicaid to ensure that individuals with disabilities can live independently and with dignity.
Join us as we examine the critical importance of Medicaid, the challenges facing the HCBS program, and the call for action to defend and expand these services. Whether you're a caregiver, advocate, or simply want to understand how these policy changes could affect millions of lives, this episode is a must-listen.
