OPINION: The catastrophic impact of Medicaid expansion repeal on our community and health care system

As discussions swirl around the potential repeal of Medicaid expansion in Idaho, it’s essential to take a step back and consider the devastating effects such a move would have on our state’s health care system, particularly for those who rely on essential services provided by organizations like Heritage Health. The stakes have never been higher, and we must act now to protect the future of health care for vulnerable populations.

Heritage Health, which has been a cornerstone in providing medical and behavioral health services to underserved individuals in North Idaho, is at risk of being pushed to the brink by the uncertainty surrounding Medicaid funding. For years, our community has relied on Medicaid to ensure that the most vulnerable can access necessary care, regardless of their ability to pay. Repealing Medicaid expansion would not only devastate Heritage Health but also set a catastrophic precedent for other health care providers across the state. 

The reality is that without Medicaid expansion, we face a perfect storm of challenges that could lead to the implosion of Idaho’s health care system. From delays in reimbursements to the lack of financial reserves needed to operate efficiently, many providers are already struggling to stay afloat. Medicaid, while not perfect, is a vital safety net that helps ensure providers like Heritage Health can continue to serve our community’s most vulnerable. 

Without Medicaid expansion, Idaho would see a dramatic increase in the number of uninsured individuals, putting more strain on emergency services, increasing costs for taxpayers and exacerbating the financial instability of our local health care systems. It is not just the individuals losing coverage who would suffer; our entire system — hospitals, clinics and the dedicated health care professionals who staff them — would face crippling burdens that could lead to widespread closures, decreased access to care and worse health outcomes across the board. 

The decision to repeal Medicaid expansion would be a direct hit to the heart of health care access for tens of thousands of Idahoans. It would mean less care for those with chronic conditions, fewer preventive services and delayed treatments, all of which lead to worse outcomes. Repealing Medicaid expansion doesn’t just hurt Heritage Health — it hurts the entire community. For many, it would be a matter of life or death. 

This is not a fight we can afford to lose. Now, more than ever, it is critical that we stand together to protect Medicaid expansion and ensure that our community continues to thrive. I urge all Idahoans to contact their legislators and demand that they oppose any bill that threatens to undo Medicaid expansion. Tell them that Idaho’s health care system is already fragile enough and that we cannot afford to strip away services that are keeping our neighbors healthy and safe. 

We cannot let this fight go unnoticed. Every call, every letter, every voice matters. Reach out today and make your voice heard — tell our lawmakers that the people of Idaho deserve better. We must protect our health care system for today and for future generations. 

Stronger together,   

MIKE BAKER, CEO of Heritage Health