Looming Medicaid cuts prompt caregiver concern on Long Island. Here's why they're nervous.
As New York faces significant impacts due to federal Medicaid cuts, supporters say the cuts will reduce fraud and abuse, while others worry about impacts to the vulnerable.
Former college athlete and administrative assistant Lisa Pope is among the Medicaid-dependent Long Islanders who rely on nonprofit human services organizations that offer addiction and mental health treatment. She's now on a positive path forward, thanks in part to the Thrive/Family and Children's Association.
"I'm 59 years old. I've been in recovery now for 20 months," Pope said. "Medicaid is important for my life right now, it's been a lifesaver. It's given me the support that I need. The counselors are there."
"We are going to see devastating impacts"
"But as the changes started happening in Washington, D.C., we're nervous," said Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds of the Family and Children's Association.
Reynolds said he was about to expand the Family and Children's Association and open a $7 million mental health, substance abuse and primary care facility in Westbury, New York.
After Congress passed what the Trump administration dubbed the Big Beautiful Bill Act in July, cuts to Medicaid are looming.
"So we canceled the project, a really painful decision," Reynolds said.
The Medicaid cuts are due to take effect in 2026.
"We are going to see devastating impacts on our community because of the cuts in this big, ugly bill," Rep. Laura Gillen said.
Gillen and Reynolds were invited to Thrive Center in Westbury to hear first hand from counselors and clients.
Thrive peer counselor and former addict Ryan Kiser is worried about the impact.
"It's a frightening thing. To ask for help, it can be such a fleeting moment. Any barriers that come in between someone and any potential recovery supports could potentially cost a life," Kiser said.
The Trump administration said the cuts are aimed at eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse within the Medicaid program, and will curb unsustainable spending growth.