Latest news with #Medicaid-enrolled
Newsweek
16-07-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Planned Parenthood Pledge To Fight Against 'Defunding' Attempts From Congress
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Planned Parenthood has said that it will "never stop fighting" Congress' attempts to cut back its funding following the passage of President Donald Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill, which the organization has said will harm millions of Americans. In Trump's bill, health care providers who carry out abortions and receive over $800,000 in federal reimbursements are banned from getting Medicaid funding for a year. Planned Parenthood, an organization providing reproductive services including abortion and birth control services across the country, has already sued the Trump administration because of the measure, and a district court has temporarily blocked the provision in the bill, pending investigation. Danika Severino Wynn, vice president of Care and Access at Planned Parenthood, told Newsweek: "There are no other providers who can fully meet the needs of millions of patients if the 'defunding' of Planned Parenthood is allowed to stand." "At Planned Parenthood, we will never stop fighting to make sure people can get the health care they need." Newsweek has contacted the Department of Health and Human Services via email for comment. Why It Matters Planned Parenthood has said that if the organization is "defunded," nearly 200 of its centers across 24 states would be at risk of closure, where more than 90 percent of those closures would be in states where abortion is legal. As a result, more than 1.1 million patients could lose access to services offered by Planned Parenthood. File photo: a protester stands outside of the Supreme Court, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Washington. File photo: a protester stands outside of the Supreme Court, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Washington. Mariam Zuhaib/AP What To Know Earlier this month, the nonprofit filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts against the provision in Trump's bill, which it said unconstitutionally "defunds" Planned Parenthood by eliminating patients' ability to use Medicaid as their insurance at Planned Parenthood health centers nationwide." In the lawsuit, Planned Parenthood said the measure "will have severe adverse effects on the health and welfare of millions of patients", such as "depriving them of essential services such as testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections and cancer screenings." As many Medicaid-enrolled patients who attend the organization's clinics do not have access to other health care providers, Planned Parenthood said, "they may be forced to forgo medical care entirely." U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani, appointed by former President Barack Obama, proceeded to grant Planned Parenthood's request to temporarily pause the Medicaid cuts to the group's health centers. Planned Parenthood is already feeling the effects of the bill, and Medicaid patients have already been turned away from its clinics in Colorado and the District of Columbia, with both clinics releasing notices that they can no longer accept Medicaid-covered patients. Not only has Planned Parenthood been involved in a major legal battle with the Trump administration in recent weeks, but it has also faced federal scrutiny. Last month, U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, on behalf of the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency (DOGE), launched an investigation into Planned Parenthood, accusing the nonprofit of using federal funds for "unpermitted purposes." "Planned Parenthood is an abortion giant that harvests organs from babies and uses nearly all of its resources to kill babies, not provide real healthcare," Greene said. The subcommittee accused Planned Parenthood of increasingly using its federal funds to provide abortion services, despite 39 percent of that money being "intended for essential health services, such as cancer screenings and wellness exams." The subcommittee pointed to Planned Parenthood's latest annual report showing that it performed more than 400,000 abortions—a marked increase of 23 percent over the last 10 years. Responding to the subcommittee's accusations, Angela Vasquez-Giroux, vice president of communications at Planned Parenthood, told Newsweek: "As Planned Parenthood has been the target of a relentless series of unsubstantiated and false accusations, PPFA welcomes the opportunity to share accurate information regarding the vital and essential health care services that Planned Parenthood health centers provide." Vasquez-Giroux added that they were reviewing the letter from Greene. What People Are Saying Danika Severino Wynn, vice president of Care and Access at Planned Parenthood, told Newsweek: "Planned Parenthood health centers are committed to doing everything they can to still see patients — and will continue to do so — while complying with all laws amid the chaos, cruelty and confusion intentionally sown by the new law the Trump administration and its backers in Congress passed that seeks to shut down Planned Parenthood and ban abortion nationwide." What Happens Next On July 11, the Trump administration filed a motion to dissolve the temporary restraining order implemented by the district judge following Planned Parenthood's lawsuit filing— meaning the legal battle continues.
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
How Trump's ‘Big Beautiful Bill' triggers cuts that could reshape public schools for millions of kids
In a landmark move with far-reaching consequences for American children and public education, the U.S. Congress has passed President 's sweeping tax and domestic policy bill. Branded by the president as the 'big, beautiful bill,' the legislation marks a sharp realignment of federal priorities — cutting deeply into healthcare and nutrition programs for low-income families while expanding immigration enforcement and promoting private school choice. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The nearly 900-page bill is expected to be signed into law by Friday. It includes historic cuts to Medicaid, which schools rely on to fund essential health services; changes to SNAP, which threatens access to free school meals; and a new tax-credit scholarship program aimed at subsidizing private education. Meanwhile, a surge in immigration enforcement funding is expected to sow fear and instability in school communities with large immigrant populations. Education leaders and policy analysts warn that the cumulative impact could reshape the daily reality for millions of children — from fewer nurses and counselors in schools, to growing food insecurity, rising absenteeism, and widening inequality in access to quality education. While supporters argue the bill promotes efficiency and parental choice, critics say schools will be left to absorb the consequences. Medicaid cuts to hit school health staff The bill imposes major reductions on Medicaid, a federal program that provides healthcare for low-income individuals. Schools depend heavily on Medicaid funding to pay for nurses, counselors, speech therapists, and other health professionals. A recent national survey of 1,400 school officials found that nearly 90 percent used Medicaid funds to cover salaries of school-based health workers. A significant number also used the funds for assistive technology for students with disabilities. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Without this support, schools may be forced to reduce services or lay off staff. Rural schools, which serve higher percentages of Medicaid-enrolled children, could face the sharpest impact. SNAP restrictions threaten access to school meals The bill changes eligibility criteria for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), potentially removing hundreds of thousands of families from the program. Children in SNAP households automatically qualify for free meals at school. If families lose SNAP access, schools may see a drop in meal participation and federal reimbursements. Advocacy groups warn that hunger in classrooms could increase, particularly in low-income districts. Schools may also struggle to process additional paperwork for free meal applications if families no longer qualify automatically. Immigration funding spike stirs fear in schools The legislation allocates $44 billion to boost immigration enforcement. This includes new agents for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and grants for state and local authorities to assist in deportations. Schools in immigrant-heavy areas have already reported higher absenteeism and increased stress among students during federal raids. Research from Stanford University showed that immigration raids earlier this year caused sharp declines in daily school attendance, especially among young children. New voucher plan backs private schools The bill creates a tax-credit scholarship program to subsidize private school tuition. Individuals will receive a tax break for donations made to scholarship-granting organizations. The measure is optional for states, and many Democrat-led states are expected to opt out. The cost of the program remains unclear, as there is no cap on tax credit payouts. A prior version of the bill proposed a $5–6 billion ceiling. Workforce Pell Grants approved, tax credit disappoints From 2026, low-income students will be able to use Pell Grants for short-term job training programs. These programs must meet criteria for high-skill or in-demand careers, as defined by state education boards. However, the bill's updated child tax credit, which increases to $2,200 per child, excludes many families with little or no income. Analysts say this version offers fewer benefits than the temporary pandemic-era expansion, which had reached a broader section of low-income households.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
RFK Jr. Hands Medicaid Data to ICE as It Ramps Up War on Immigrants
The Trump administration is giving the personal data of Medicaid-enrolled immigrants to the Department of Homeland Security, according to the Associated Press. The Department of Homeland Security forced the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services—which is part of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Department of Health and Human Services—to hand over personal information, an unprecedented move. This is yet another clear invasion of privacy aimed to help ICE find immigrants' names, homes, and jobs and identify immigrants receiving aid so that they can revoke green card applications and target permanent residency seekers. Most of the data covers residents of California, Illinois, Washington state, and Washington, D.C.—all states that let noncitizens enroll in Medicaid, and all states that are seeing ramped-up ICE raids and protests in response. CMS tried to fight DHS's request, arguing that they'd be violating the Social Security Act and the Privacy Act of 1974, and in general going against 'longstanding policy' of not giving people's personal Medicaid data to a department that has nothing to do with Medicaid just because they are immigrants. 'We deeply value the privacy of all Californians,' Gavin Newsom said in a statement. 'This potential data transfer brought to our attention by the AP is extremely concerning, and if true, potentially unlawful, particularly given numerous headlines highlighting potential improper federal use of personal information and federal actions to target the personal information of Americans.'
Newsweek
07-06-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
The Bulletin June 4, 2025
The rundown: Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s vow to "Make America Healthy Again" could fall short when it comes to chronic disease, experts have warned. Here's how. Why it matters: Nearly 130 million Americans are estimated to have at least one form of chronic disease, which could be heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity or hypertension, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The proposed cuts to Medicaid funding and work requirements for eligibility to the benefits, which are set to come as part of the broader GOP budget bill, could leave many with chronic disease without access to vital care. As many as three in four adults enrolled in Medicaid report having one or more chronic conditions, and many are unable to work the hours needed to meet the new eligibility requirements, according to nonprofit health policy research and news organization, KFF. So, while some may be medically exempt, others will lose their health coverage, meaning their conditions could worsen without access to care. Read more in-depth coverage: Health Experts Call Out RFK Jr. Policy Changes: 'New Inconsistency Every Day' TL/DR: Experts told Newsweek that, while the Trump administration's ambition to "defeat" the "epidemic" is clear, whether its policies will help or hinder chronic-disease patients remains to be seen. What happens now? Ross Brownson, director of the Prevention Research Center at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, told Newsweek that Medicaid cuts would "likely have a detrimental effect on chronic disease risk among the most vulnerable populations," adding Medicaid-enrolled adults have significantly higher rates of chronic disease than individuals privately insured. Deeper reading Can Trump Tackle US 'Chronic Disease Crisis'? Experts Weigh In
Time Business News
21-05-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
A Lifeline for the Forgotten: Omnidenture Helps Clients in Washington's Dental Crisis
Everett, WA – As Washington State's dental care infrastructure buckles under the combined weight of federal and state budget cuts, Everett-based clinic Omnidenture is not backing down. It's doubling down—expanding its services, deepening community partnerships, and stepping into leadership as one of the few clinics in the region still offering consistent, compassionate care to challenged clients. These are the people society often overlooks: seniors, veterans, disabled individuals, trauma survivors, low-income families, and those with complex medical or psychological needs. Budget Cuts Create a Perfect Storm for Vulnerable Patients In the months following the federal rollback of dental Medicaid matching funds and the elimination key oral health grants, providers across Washington have sounded the alarm. Clinics have closed, waitlists have surged, and providers are burned out. But the people hit hardest are those with the fewest resources. 'State and federal budget cuts didn't just reduce funding. They broke the spirit of the system,' said Dr. Nishita Shah, lead prosthodontist and founder of Omnidenture. 'What we're seeing now is a silent epidemic—people living in pain, ashamed of their appearance, avoiding meals, work, and social life, all because they can't access basic dental care.' According to the Washington State Department of Health, dental care disruptions have directly affected over 87,000 low-income and Medicaid-enrolled residents since March. Community clinics and mobile units have been hit especially hard in rural counties. Urban populations, meanwhile, face overwhelmed providers and narrowing eligibility criteria. Omnidenture's Commitment to Challenged Clients: A Four-Pillar Approach At the center of this crisis, Omnidenture has emerged as a model for resilience and compassion. Rather than scaling back, the clinic has built a four-pillar care model that addresses the most pressing challenges faced by underserved populations: Accessibility and Inclusion Financial Equity and Affordability Specialized Services for Complex Needs Community-Based Partnerships and Advocacy Each pillar supports one goal: ensuring no one is denied care due to circumstances beyond their control. 1. Accessibility and Inclusion: Meeting Patients Where They Are Omnidenture's priority is ensuring physical and emotional access to care. This includes: Wheelchair-accessible operatories Transportation assistance House visits for patients with mobility limitations Interpreter services in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and ASL Sensory-friendly environments for patients with autism or PTSD The clinic also accommodates flexible appointment times, including early morning, late evening, and weekend availability for patients with caregiving duties, shift work, or anxiety-related scheduling challenges. Case Study: Raymond, Age 34 Raymond, a developmentally disabled man in Snohomish County, hadn't seen a dentist in over six years due to fear, sensory issues, and transportation challenges. His mother had tried repeatedly to find a provider to meet his needs. 'Everywhere we went, they either said they weren't equipped or quoted thousands upfront,' she said. Omnidenture created a custom sedation plan, coordinated with Raymond's care team, arranged transport, and allowed a support animal in the room. Today, Raymond is infection-free and smiling for the first time in years. 2. Financial Equity: Removing Cost as a Barrier With federal subsidies gone and Medicaid support weakened, Omnidenture now offers one of the most comprehensive affordability programs in the region: Sliding-scale fees based on income based on income 0% financing options for dentures, implants, and complete restorative work for dentures, implants, and complete restorative work Payment deferrals for hardship cases for hardship cases Crowdfunded treatment sponsorships through its ' Sponsor a Smile ' campaign through its ' ' campaign Access to nonprofit dental grants through local partnerships 'Our goal is to make the money question irrelevant regarding health,' said Dr. Shah. 'We will always find a solution for those who need help.' Carla's Story: A Survivor's Smile Restored Carla M., 39, came to Omnidenture after surviving domestic abuse that left her with broken and missing teeth. She had no insurance and no income at the time. 'I didn't think I deserved to look normal again,' she said. Omnidenture created a 100% grant-funded care plan in partnership with a local women's shelter and dental relief fund. Carla has complete upper and lower dentures and has resumed work as a home health aide. 3. Specialized Services for Complex Cases Unlike many providers who turn away complicated cases due to time, cost, or risk, Omnidenture welcomes medically and socially complex patients. The clinic has invested in: Sedation dentistry and behavioural support plans Advanced denture fabrication and implants for facial trauma Oral health screenings for cancer survivors Chronic illness management (e.g., diabetes and dental complications) Trauma-informed care protocols James, the Veteran Who Almost Gave Up After his VA dental benefits were discontinued, James L., a 72-year-old disabled veteran, lived with a broken implant and gum infection for over 8 months. 'I just assumed no one would help me,' he said. Omnidenture created a custom prosthetic, waived nearly 60% of the total cost, and worked with a veterans' aid organization to cover the remainder. 'They treated me like a person, not a patient file,' he said. 4. Community Partnerships and Systems Navigation Omnidenture's final pillar involves collaboration. The clinic works with over 20 nonprofits and public health agencies to close referral gaps and comprehensively support their patients. Key partners include: Everett Veterans Coalition YWCA Domestic Violence Services Catholic Community Services Washington Disability Rights Center Local shelters and food banks These partnerships allow for: Coordinated case management Shared care plans Cross-referrals for housing, food, and mental health support Training programs for dental assistants from underserved communities From Crisis to Advocacy: A New Mission Emerges While continuing its day-to-day services, Omnidenture is stepping into a larger role as an advocate for systemic change. In April 2025, the clinic co-launched #SaveOurSmilesWA, a public awareness and legislative advocacy campaign aimed at: Restoring federal Medicaid dental funds Reinstating oral health workforce training programs Securing emergency relief funds for clinics in crisis Expanding dental parity for disability and veteran populations The campaign has garnered support from the Washington Dental Association, Public Health Alliance, and over 12 state legislators. 'We are not just fixing teeth. We are defending the dignity of people who deserve to be seen, heard, and cared for,' said Dr. Shah. Looking Ahead: Scaling Solutions and Sustaining Compassion In 2025, Omnidenture plans to: Open a second mobile unit for house calls and community outreach for house calls and community outreach Expand tele-dentistry services to reach rural and homebound patients to reach rural and homebound patients Launch a dental scholarship program for low-income high school students pursuing healthcare careers for low-income high school students pursuing healthcare careers Train additional trauma-informed dental assistants Create a regional hub for complex denture and implant care How You Can Help As demand grows, Omnidenture is asking the public to join its mission. Every dollar, referral, and volunteer hour makes a difference. Ways to support: Donate to the 'Sponsor a Smile' program to the 'Sponsor a Smile' program Refer clients from community centers or case management agencies clients from community centers or case management agencies Advocate for Medicaid and dental parity at the state and federal level for Medicaid and dental parity at the state and federal level Volunteer if you are a licensed dental professional or student if you are a licensed dental professional or student Share this release to raise awareness Media Contact: Omnidenture Clinic1710 100th Place SESuite 102Everett, WA 98208📧 omnismiles@ Tel: 425-224-4620 📠 Fax: 425-224-4621
