PA’s Uninsured Children Reach 153,000 Amid Funding Cuts

Article Summary –

A report reveals that over 153,000 children in Pennsylvania are uninsured, marking the highest number in a decade, with Hispanic children and those from lower-income families being most affected. Factors such as impending federal policy changes, historic Medicaid cuts, and the expiration of enhanced tax credits for health coverage could exacerbate this issue, potentially leaving over 50,000 children uninsured. Becky Ludwick from Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children emphasizes the need to protect and strengthen health programs like Medicaid, CHIP, and Pennie to prevent increased barriers to healthcare access for families.

By Danielle Smith

A new report reveals Pennsylvania faces its highest count of uninsured children in a decade.

The report analyzes children’s health insurance in the state, uncovering that over 153,000 kids lack coverage. This rise coincides with significant federal policy changes potentially limiting healthcare access for families.

Becky Ludwick, vice president of public policy at Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children, expressed uncertainty about the reasons behind the increase. However, it highlights the demographics more likely to be uninsured.

“Hispanic children have experienced a notable increase in uninsured numbers, alongside children in lower-income families,” she noted. “There’s a widening gap in insurance coverage based on family income.”

The uninsured rate for Hispanic children reached 7.3%, the highest in five years. Children from low-income households often lack coverage, while those from higher-income families see declining rates. Nearly half of uninsured kids reside in seven counties, including Philadelphia and Berks.

Ludwick mentioned almost half of Pennsylvania’s children depend on Medicaid, CHIP, or Pennie for insurance. Without extending enhanced tax credits beyond December, families might face sharply increased costs, risking over 50,000 children enrolled in Pennie losing their insurance.

“It’s crucial to cover more parents and families, as that directly affects children’s coverage,” she explained. “Without tax credits, families won’t afford the coverage.”

Ludwick highlighted sweeping federal cuts and policy changes passed by Congress that could severely restrict healthcare access. With historic Medicaid cuts and new eligibility and work requirements, many families will face increased barriers, impacting children’s coverage.

“The state estimates over 300,000 Pennsylvanians might lose coverage, excluding children,” she stated. “These estimates focus on adults affected by work requirement changes.”

Ludwick urged policymakers to safeguard and enhance programs like Medicaid, CHIP, and Pennie, hoping for a reversal of Medicaid cuts and the extension of premium tax credits to assist families in maintaining health insurance.