Opinion: Protecting Medicaid — A call to action for Alaska’s communities of color

As the President and CEO of the Alaska Black Caucus, I feel compelled to address the recent discussions in Congress regarding potential cuts of up to $2 trillion to Medicaid. These proposed cuts threaten not only the health and well-being of countless Alaskans but also exacerbate existing systemic barriers that people of color in our state face when accessing essential health care services.

Medicaid is a lifeline for over 250,000 Alaskans, particularly those who are low-income or uninsured. It offers essential coverage for medical services, preventive care, mental health support, and substance abuse treatment. In Alaska, Medicaid covers nearly 38% of annual births, and almost half of all enrollees are under the age of 18. This program is fundamental in providing our youngest residents with the best opportunities for a healthy and productive life.

In a state where the cost of living is high and health disparities are prevalent, this program is vital. Cutting Medicaid would lead to increased financial strain on families, higher rates of untreated health issues, a deterioration of overall community health, and a significant financial strain on a state budget that is already in crisis. Alaska receives over $2 billion in federal funding for Medicaid annually, which accounts for 78% of Medicaid spending in the state, and losing this funding would be catastrophic to our state and local economies.

For communities of color in Alaska, the stakes are even higher. We already navigate a complex web of systemic inequities that hinder our access to quality health care. Historical injustices, economic disparities, and cultural barriers contribute to poor health outcomes for these populations. Discontinuing or reducing Medicaid funding would only deepen these disparities, leaving our most vulnerable citizens without the necessary resources to maintain their health and well-being.

Research consistently shows that Medicaid expansion reduces uninsured rates among different racial and ethnic groups, and we’re seeing the benefits right here at home. Expanding access to affordable health care is not just about saving lives; it’s about promoting equity, improving community health, and strengthening the economic foundation of our state.

The consequences of cutting Medicaid extend beyond individual health; they impact our communities as a whole. When families lack access to health care, it strains our hospitals and emergency services, leading to higher costs for everyone. It also creates a ripple effect in our economy, as healthier individuals are better equipped to contribute to the workforce and support local businesses.

Opposing these cuts is not just a matter of policy; it is a moral imperative. We must advocate for a health care system that is equitable and accessible for all Alaskans, regardless of their race or economic status. We need to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to lead a healthy life, free from the burdens of systemic barriers.

I urge our lawmakers to reconsider any measures that would cut Medicaid funding. Instead, we should be investing in programs that expand access to health care, improve health literacy, and address the unique needs of our communities of color. It is time to dismantle the barriers that have long plagued our health care system and work towards a future where everyone in Alaska can access the care they need.

Let us come together as a community to support our most vulnerable citizens. We must raise our voices in opposition to these cuts and advocate for a health care system that prioritizes equity, compassion, and access for all.

Celeste Hodge Growden is the president and CEO of the Alaska Black Caucus. She lives in Anchorage.

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