Why “Just Use Work Insurance” Doesn’t Work for Disabled Kids.

Since I first wrote about what Medicaid means for my disabled son, I’ve heard from plenty of kind, supportive people. I’ve also heard from people who repeat the same tired talking points about “fraud” or who ask why I don’t just “put him on my work insurance.”

Here’s the truth: Medicaid is not the same as private insurance. It’s not just about doctor’s visits or prescriptions—it’s about long-term care, in-home support, employment services, and community living. None of that is covered by work insurance. And here’s the part that really matters: I can’t live forever. Medicaid is the only system in place to make sure my son can live with dignity after I’m gone.

And if you think this is just about my family, think again. The Senate’s new budget proves that when Medicaid gets cut, it doesn’t just hurt disabled kids; it affects seniors, rural hospitals, nursing homes, and entire communities.

Yes, They Are Cutting Medicaid

The Senate’s version of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” doesn’t say the word “Medicaid.” What it does do is direct the Energy and Commerce Committee to slash over $1 trillion from it over the next decade. It’s impossible to do this without touching Medicaid.

CBO projects this will result in:

• 11.8 million fewer people covered by Medicaid by 2034
• Nursing homes across the country closing—579 at risk of shutting down completely
• Rural hospitals collapsing, as Medicaid dollars dry up and healthcare deserts expand

The result? More kids without therapists. More seniors without care. More families losing sleep because they can’t find a nurse, a bed, or a path forward.

Let’s Talk About Fraud, Just Not the Way You Think

Another tired talking point is the supposed waste and fraud in Medicaid. And sure, let’s talk about fraud, just not in the way you expect.

If fraud is really your concern, why aren’t we looking at:

• Defense Contracting – The Pentagon can’t account for trillions of dollars. But sure, let’s yell at a disabled child’s family over a therapy session.
• Corporate Welfare – Billion-dollar corporations pay zero in federal taxes while getting subsidies from the government. Where’s the outrage? Elon Musk has secured $38 billion in contracts this month–you seem awfully quiet about that.
• Private Insurance Fraud – Medicaid fraud is estimated at 6-10%, while private insurance fraud costs the system far more. But I don’t see anyone suggesting we gut Aetna.

And let’s be real: if there is fraud in Medicaid, why are we attacking the recipients? It’s not disabled kids gaming the system—it’s often corrupt providers. So maybe focus on the actual problem instead of gutting programs that help people survive.

“Just Put Him on Work Insurance”

Here’s why that’s not an option: Private insurance doesn’t cover what my son needs.

Medicaid isn’t just for doctor’s visits. It pays for:

• In-home aides
• Supported employment programs
• Adaptive technology
• Community integration services
• Residential options that aren’t institutions

You know what private insurance covers? None of that.

And here’s the kicker: I can’t live forever. Medicaid is the only path to a life for my son after I’m gone. Without it, he risks being warehoused. If that doesn’t scare you, try imagining your child in the same boat. We’re all just one car accident away from being disabled.

Fact Check: “Medicaid is Paid for by the States”

I keep seeing people claim that Medicaid is “paid for by the states,” as if gutting it is some responsible state budget measure. Here’s the truth: the federal government pays about 70% of Medicaid costs, while states cover the remaining 30%. The exact split varies, but in Pennsylvania, the feds cover the vast majority. Cutting Medicaid at the federal level forces states to either find more money or cut services. Guess which one happens?

Where I Want My Tax Dollars to Go

And finally, let’s address the real issue: These are our tax dollars. And I, for one, want them going toward programs that help people—healthcare, education, and services that keep families together. Not into billionaires’ pockets.

If you’re out here defending Medicaid cuts while billionaires hoard wealth, I have to ask: Why are you carrying their water? Because I promise you, they don’t care about you.

So, to the haters: I don’t expect to change your minds. But I do expect you to learn the facts before spewing nonsense. And if you still think cutting Medicaid is a good idea? Just admit you don’t care about disabled people and move on.