Allergy & Asthma Network CEO Lynda Mitchell issued the following statement regarding cuts to the Medicaid program proposed in the reconciliation package slated for markup by the House Energy and Commerce Committee: 

Allergy & Asthma Network is deeply concerned by the proposed $880 billion cuts to Medicaid outlined in the reconciliation package. We fear these proposed cuts will jeopardize access to essential medical coverage for millions of women, babies and children who rely on this vital safety net for their asthma and allergy care.

Specifically, Medicaid covers a significant portion of the nation’s population living with asthma. Nearly half of all children with asthma receiving their medical coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It serves adults at twice the rate of their counterparts on private insurance.

Medicaid is a crucial lifeline for vulnerable patients who depend on their coverage for access to medications that help them breathe. Cuts to Medicaid funding, along with the reversal of coverage protections for children (e.g., lifetime limits on coverage, lock-out periods for premium non-payments, etc.), will inevitably restrict access to vital medications and treatments for potentially life-threatening asthma and allergy episodes.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee is meeting to mark up the provisions in the legislation. We urge the Committee to approach these proposals with a clear understanding of the devastating consequences they pose for millions of Medicaid beneficiaries who rely on their coverage to obtain critical treatments and services.

Founded in 1985, Allergy & Asthma Network is the leading nonprofit outreach, education, advocacy and research organization for people and families living with allergies, asthma, and related conditions. Our mission is simple yet profound: to end needless death and suffering from these diseases, empower people to take control of their health and well-being, and make healthcare more inclusive, equitable and accessible. We specialize in making medically accurate information understandable to all while promoting evidence-based care. We are committed to raising awareness, sharing resources, fostering collaboration, and advocating for policies and research that enhance quality of life and improve health outcomes. Visit AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org.