Article Summary –
Katey Olson’s 12-year-old son, Jace, who has profound autism, relies heavily on Medicaid for essential services and support that enable him to participate in community activities and manage his condition. Recent budget resolutions passed by Republican lawmakers propose massive cuts to Medicaid, raising concerns for families like the Olsons who depend on these services for various needs, including adaptive equipment, therapy, and special education support. Without Medicaid, Jace could face isolation and institutionalization, while the Olson family’s ability to work and contribute to society would be significantly impacted, highlighting the potential societal and economic repercussions of such funding cuts.
Katey Olson’s son, Jace, 12, has profound autism, needing constant intensive care. He is nonverbal, incontinent, and faces dietary and sensory challenges.
Jace enjoys activities like biking and swimming, and recently ice skated with friends. With Medicaid’s help, the family accesses adaptive equipment, such as a special bike trailer, allowing Jace to join family activities in Viroqua.
Katey fears cuts to Medicaid would threaten these services. Her concern grows as Republicans and the Trump administration propose severe federal cuts.
“He participated in a meaningful way,” Katey expressed about Jace’s ice skating. “Without Medicaid, those opportunities disappear.”
Medicaid, a joint federal-state program, offers healthcare coverage to low-resource individuals, including children and people with disabilities. In Wisconsin, it aids over a million residents, such as countless rural kids like Jace.
On Feb. 25, the House passed a budget slashing $880 billion from programs under the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which controls $600 billion in Medicaid funding. Despite some Republican leaders stating Medicaid won’t be reduced, experts argue it’s inevitable due to its budget share.
Though Katey and her husband Shawn have private insurance, it covers only basic healthcare. Medicaid fills the gap, funding necessary lifelong treatments and adaptive equipment for Jace. Sedation for dental care, costing up to $30,000, and frequent doctor visits are covered by Medicaid.
In Wisconsin schools, Medicaid backs special education, providing tools like Jace’s communication tablet and sensory room access for emotional regulation.
Community programming, like summer school, is also Medicaid-supported. The Olsons collaborate with Jace’s social worker on activities, preventing isolation.
“Without community support for Jace’s safety, his participation in activities like summer school or family bike rides would be impossible,” Katey noted.
Medicaid cuts risk Jace’s education and care, possibly leading to institutionalization.
Cuts would also strain their family. Their daughter, Eden, 13, might receive less attention, and Katey and Shawn’s work could suffer. Shawn, a county carpenter, and Katey, managing hospital staff, would struggle to fulfill their roles if resources decrease.
“Medicaid’s impact extends beyond personal effects; it influences societal and economic contributions,” Katey emphasized.
Facing an uncertain future, Katey worries about Jace’s long-term care and loses sleep over potential Medicaid cuts.
“Medicaid is essential to our society’s fabric,” Katey stated, highlighting the risk of funding loss and permanent impact.
“It’s like watching a loved one approach a cliff, urging them to turn back while witnessing the inevitable,” Katey described.
—
Read More Wisconsin News
