Coalition Unites to Urge SD Senators: Oppose Potential Medicaid Cuts

SIoux Falls, SD (Dakota News Now) -- The prospect of possible Medicaid reductions has sparked numerous demonstrations and debates nationwide and within Sioux Falls. A recently established alliance is now aiming to continue this advocacy effort.

The coalition known as "Hands Off Medicaid" aims to gather support to urge senators across South Dakota and the nation to resist the reductions proposed in the so-called "Big Beautiful Bill."

The organization projects that if the reductions outlined in the Big Beautiful Bill are implemented, nearly 27,000 residents of South Dakota might be deprived of coverage altogether.

"This marks a significant shift from an eight-decade-long effort aimed at providing families with the healthcare they require," stated Earl Pomeroy, a former Congressman from North Dakota.

Dr. Thomas Dean, who has more than three decades of experience in family medicine, stated that this will deeply affect numerous mothers within the state.

"Medicaid plays a crucial role as a funding source for prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, which is particularly worrying, especially in rural regions but also throughout the nation," stated Dr. Dean.

Dr. Dean mentioned that without Medicaid, providing financial support for prenatal care would be quite challenging.

"OB care generally turns into a financial loss for hospitals, particularly for smaller rural ones which are already facing economic difficulties. If we lose Medicaid coverage, this issue will become even more severe," Dr. Dean pointed out.

Almost 150,000 people in South Dakota are part of the Medicaid program, where about 42% of these enrollees consist of women who are either pregnant or have recently given birth.

"Many of these adults only qualify for Medicaid once they have a dependent who becomes eligible. Often, when children are born, this marks the first opportunity for individuals to obtain Medicaid coverage. We're thankful that infants enrolled in Medicaid can get the necessary services," explained Dr. Dean.

The Grand Spectacular Bill barely made it through the House of Representatives and is now awaiting a vote in the Senate.