CW: Fraud
Medicaid provides health benefits to more than 80 million Americans, including children, older adults, disabled people, low income families, and pregnant women. It also serves as a lifeline for hospitals, nursing homes, community health centers, and home care agencies. Because so many people depend on the program, even temporary disruptions in coverage or services can have life-changing consequences.
In Minnesota, Options Inc. supports nearly 200 people with developmental disabilities, helping some find jobs and others live more independently. The nonprofit has served the Sherburne County community since 1979 and relies heavily on Medicaid funding. When that funding was interrupted during the state’s provider revalidation process, families were left wondering what would happen next.
Colene and Dan Verdick, whose 29-year-old daughter Hannah receives services through the organization, described the uncertainty as incredibly stressful. After experiencing a temporary loss of services during the COVID-19 pandemic, they know firsthand how devastating it can be. As Dan put it, “She was miserable.”
Their story resonates with me because I know what it is like to lose Medicaid services. This spring, MassHealth abruptly took away my overnight personal care attendant (PCA) hours. Having someone available to help me at night is not a luxury. It is something I need to stay safe, maintain my health, and continue living independently in my own home.
The appeal process was exhausting. I had to gather medical documentation, complete paperwork, and make repeated phone calls just to have my medically necessary care restored. People should not have to spend months fighting for services that are essential to their health and independence.
My experience involved a state Medicaid appeal, but I know I am far from the only person affected by Medicaid disruptions. Behind every reimbursement rate, appeal, and case file is a human being whose life depends on these services. No one should have to worry about whether the care they rely on will still be there tomorrow.
Fraud prevention matters. Public dollars should be spent responsibly, and bad organizations should be held accountable. But protecting the integrity of Medicaid should never mean leaving people without the support they need. Governments can uphold fiscal responsibility while ensuring people continue receiving essential services without unnecessary delays or bureaucratic obstacles.
Medicaid is not just another political issue. For millions of Americans, it is a matter of life and death. We can protect taxpayer dollars while protecting access to care. A system that does both is possible and it is necessary.
Sources:
Hoggard, Corin. “Minnesota Medicaid Revalidation: Families of Disabled Adults Fear Losing Services.” FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul, 9 June 2026, https://www.fox9.com/news/minnesota-medicaid-revalidation-families-disabled-adults-fear-losing-services-june-2026.
Van Berkel, Jessie. “Care Left in Limbo as Minnesota Reviews Appeals from Medicaid Providers.” Star Tribune, 28 July 2026, https://www.startribune.com/care-left-in-limbo-as-minnesota-reviews-appeals-from-medicaid-providers/601855507.