Misuse of Medicaid undermines the program

I’ve been a nurse for 33 years having grown up in Iowa City, born at the U of I. I entered the profession of healthcare to provide for those who are hurting.

What hurts all of us, however, is when our social programs like Medicaid are abused.

Medicaid, established in 1965, was created to provide care for those who cannot afford it or who are physically unable to earn it themselves. Throughout my nursing career, I saw countless patients benefit from this program. However when able-bodied individuals or those with the means to provide for their own care take advantage of Medicaid, it goes against the program’s original intent and undermines its integrity.

As taxpayers, we all bear the burden of this abuse. That’s why I’m grateful to Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Sen.Joni Ernst, and Sen. Chuck Grassley for upholding the integrity of Medicaid and working to ensure that it continues to serve those who truly need it by passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Judy Mckillip

Iowa City