Medicaid is healthcare protection for many families in the region.
Medicaid plays a crucial role in providing healthcare coverage for individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford it. Funded by the federal government and managed by individual states, the program ensures access to essential health services for millions of Americans, including those in need across the Inland Empire. Chad Vercio, MD, division chief of general pediatrics at Loma Linda University Children’s Health, recently discussed the importance of Medicaid and the impact of any potential cuts to this vital program, particularly for families with children, and pregnant women.
“In our region, a significant portion of children rely on Medicaid,” Vercio explained, “which makes it a cornerstone of healthcare for families in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.”
In the Inland Empire, nearly 50% of children are enrolled in Medicaid, with many of them covered by Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), the region’s primary Medicaid provider. For children with complex medical needs, who make up a large percentage of the patients we serve, that number jumps to nearly 80% because private insurance often does not cover the extensive, ongoing care these children require. Many families of medically complex children face significant financial burdens due to the high cost of treatments, therapies, and specialized equipment. Additionally, parents may need to reduce work hours or leave jobs entirely to become full-time caregivers, limiting their access to employer-sponsored health plans. These families rely on Medicaid for routine care, specialized treatments, and preventive services, making the program indispensable.
Vercio said cuts to Medicaid funding could have far-reaching consequences on the community and healthcare systems. “The loss of Medicaid funding would make it very difficult to provide the necessary services for children in our region, whether in clinics or within children’s hospitals,” he said. “Many children in our area—particularly those with complex medical conditions—would see a decline in their health outcomes without this crucial support.”
One of the most pressing concerns Vercio mentioned was the potential impact on pregnant women. Without Medicaid coverage, many expectant mothers may not receive the prenatal care necessary for a healthy pregnancy, which could lead to an increase in premature births and associated complications. Premature babies often face a range of health challenges due to their early arrival, further straining healthcare resources.
For children, especially those with complex or chronic health conditions, cuts to Medicaid could lead to delays or discontinuation of critical medical services. This could include access to specialists and treatments that are vital for managing long-term health problems. Without this support, many children in the Inland Empire could see their conditions worsen, resulting in long-term negative health outcomes.
As policymakers continue to make decisions about Medicaid funding, advocates like Vercio stress the stakes couldn’t be higher for the families who rely on the program. With nearly half of local children depending on Medicaid, any changes to the program would not only affect the health of individual families but could also have a broader impact on the health and well-being of the entire region.
For those who depend on Medicaid, the program is not just a safety net—it's a lifeline.
Vercio emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the potential consequences of Medicaid cuts. “It is vital for people to make their voices heard, especially to their elected representatives. These officials are there to represent their constituents, which includes families who rely on Medicaid for healthcare. We need to ensure they understand just how critical this funding is to maternal and children’s healthcare,” he said.
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