Health coverage and access to care are essential to the well-being of kids and families in Arkansas. In a deeply rural state like Arkansas, Medicaid plays a particularly important role in ensuring access to health care where many residents face barriers such as limited provider availability, transportation challenges, and higher rates of chronic health conditions.
Across all Medicaid programs in our state, more than 850,000 Arkansans receive services covered by Medicaid. Medicaid remains a cornerstone of Arkansas’s health care system, especially in rural communities where access to care can be limited, and families often rely on it as their primary source of health coverage. Access to care helps Arkansans see a doctor when they’re sick, stay healthy enough to work and provide for their families, and be caregivers to small children or elderly parents. The impact of access to care goes far beyond the doctor’s office.
Recent federal policy changes are expected to prompt massive cuts in funding to states and losses in coverage, raising concerns about the future of Medicaid coverage and access to care for kids and families in Arkansas. Losing coverage results in delayed care, worsening health outcomes, and increased medical debt. An increase in uncompensated care makes it more difficult for hospitals to stay open. As these changes are implemented, it is important to involve Arkansans most impacted by harmful policy changes in the conversation around coverage and care. Advocacy helps ensure that health policy reflects the real needs of Arkansans, especially those most impacted by gaps in coverage and access to care.
Join us in the fight for children’s rights and family support. Your involvement can help shape a better future for our community.
