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Sam's Fight: Iowa Family Battles Medicaid Cuts

Sam's Fight: Iowa Family Battles Medicaid Cuts

Irvine News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · The Daily News Now!

March 19, 20261m 20s

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Show Notes

In Ottumwa, Iowa, Leisa and Kent Walker are battling to maintain their son Sams Medicaid coverage, which funds in-home caregivers essential for his well-being. Sam, who has severe autism, is deaf, and cannot speak, requires constant care to prevent self-harm and harm to others. The Walkers fear that a reduction in funding could force Sam into a nursing home, causing him severe anxiety. Across Iowa, families face similar threats to home-based services for disabilities, with advocates blaming state budget shortfalls and federal Medicaid reductions. After an appeal hearing, an administrative law judge ruled in favor of the Walkers, but the insurer has appealed to Iowas health department. The case could head to court, with experts warning of increased pressure on waiver programs nationwide as states tighten spending amid caregiver shortages.

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