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The recent Medicaid purge, which has resulted in millions of people being removed from the program, has sparked controversy and drawn criticism from Democrats who argue that it is unjust. However, it is important to recognize that this Medicaid purge is necessary for the long-term viability of the Medicaid program according to an article in Washington Examiner.
Medicaid Purge: Millions Are Kicked Out Of the Program; Democrats Say It’s Unjust! (PHOTO: PBS)
Medicaid Purge; Millions Are Kicked Out Of the Program
The reason behind individuals losing their Medicaid coverage is simple—they have failed to demonstrate their eligibility as required by law. This process is not arbitrary or sudden; it is a result of states regaining the authority to verify the eligibility of Medicaid enrollees, as granted in last year’s federal budget deal.
Since the start of April, states have been able to assess whether individuals meet the program’s eligibility criteria, a task they were unable to carry out for the past three years. During the COVID-19 public health emergency, states were prohibited from terminating Medicaid coverage, even for those who were ineligible, to ensure continuous coverage.
However, with the end of the public health emergency, it is essential that taxpayers no longer bear the burden of providing Medicaid benefits to individuals who do not meet the program’s requirements.
Medicaid is facing a looming financial crisis, with spending reaching a staggering $734 billion in 2021 alone. This represents a significant portion of the country’s healthcare expenditure, and projections suggest that Medicaid spending will exceed $1 trillion within the next five years.
Such unsustainable growth is a direct consequence of the inflated enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Estimates from the Foundation for Government Accountability indicate that Medicaid covered approximately 100 million people just before states regained the authority to audit their rolls, far beyond the program’s original purpose of providing coverage to the poor and disabled.
Removing ineligible individuals from the program is not only reasonable but also essential for cost-cutting measures and ensuring the program’s financial stability, allowing it to better serve those who genuinely qualify for Medicaid and avoid the Medicaid purge.
Furthermore, it is important to consider the broader context, particularly the current labor market dynamics. With around 10 million job openings nationwide and a shortage of workers, it becomes absurd to inflate the welfare rolls.
READ ALSO: Medicaid Redetermination Process Leaves 43,000 West Virginians Lose Medicaid Coverage
Medicaid Purge
Many individuals who are ineligible for Medicaid could potentially secure employer-based health benefits or qualify for subsidized coverage through an Obamacare exchange. By directing resources to those who truly need assistance, Medicaid can fulfill its mission effectively.
To preserve the integrity of Medicaid and provide assistance to those who genuinely require it, the program’s rolls consist of qualified individuals. The resumption of eligibility verification enables states to achieve this goal and ensure that resources are appropriately allocated.
While the Medicaid purge may be met with opposition, it is a necessary step toward maintaining the program’s sustainability and prioritizing assistance for eligible beneficiaries.
READ ALSO: Kicked Off Medicaid: State Reviews List To Cut Ineligible Recipients
