Shapiro Administration Highlights Vital Role of Medicaid in Supporting Pennsylvania's Economy

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh, Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys, and Pennie Executive Director Devon Trolley visited Union Community Care to discuss the importance of Medicaid in providing health care coverage to millions of Pennsylvanians amid proposed federal cuts to the program, which would kick more than 300,000 Pennsylvanians off their health insurance.

More than three million Pennsylvanians - or 1 in 4 people - get their health care coverage through Medicaid, also known as Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania. With this coverage, Pennsylvanians can see a doctor, fill prescriptions, and access preventive services like health screenings. This coverage is vital to helping people stay healthy, take care of their families, and contribute to our economy.

"All of us know someone - whether its ourselves, a friend, loved one, or a neighbor - who Medicaid has helped. But no matter how you personally get your health care coverage, Medicaid is vital to protecting the health of your community," said Secretary Arkoosh. "Congressional Republicans' proposed cuts to Medicaid would be devastating not only for those who would lose their health coverage, but for all of us who would face the real life consequences of crowded emergency departments, increases in the cost of health insurance, and the catastrophic effects on economies and health systems in rural areas. These cuts will create a public health crisis for our Commonwealth, and I am encouraging all Pennsylvanians to contact their federal representatives and urge them to protect this program that is the backbone of our health system and a lifeline for our communities."