Medicaid Cuts Threaten Access to Mental Health Services in Virginia

Central Virginia community organizations are alarmed by potential reductions in Medicaid funding that could leave many residents without crucial mental health and addiction recovery services. Concerns have intensified following reports that Congress is considering decreases in overall Medicaid funding as part of the federal budget discussions.

In 2019, Virginia expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which allowed more adults to receive coverage. This expansion has been pivotal in combating addiction and reducing overdose deaths in the state, which have been declining in recent years. Nonprofits and community service boards credit this increased access with helping many individuals receive the treatment they need.

However, Virginia has a ‘trigger law’ in place. If federal funding for Medicaid drops below 90%, many residents enrolled in the Medicaid expansion could lose their coverage. Currently, the federal government covers 90% of the costs for those enrolled through this expansion, with the remaining 10% financed through taxes on private hospitals.

Victor McKenzie Jr., executive director of the Substance Abuse and Addiction Recovery Alliance of Virginia, warned that losing Medicaid coverage would exacerbate existing pressures on emergency rooms and state-run psychiatric facilities, which are already overstretched. He stated, ‘We have seen declines in overdose deaths. Now is not the time to go backwards.’

The discussions in Congress also include the possibility of implementing work requirements for many Medicaid recipients who do not have children, which could further limit access to care.

To address these challenges, the Community Mental Health and Wellness Coalition is hosting a virtual event titled ‘Investing in Wellness: A Community Dialogue on Mental Health’ on May 21 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This event will feature local and state leaders, including State Senator Creigh Deeds, and provide an opportunity for community members to ask questions about mental health resources and advocacy efforts.

This event is free to attend, and registration is available online. It aims to empower the community by discussing mental health resources and advocating for better access to care in uncertain times. As changes loom, community leaders stress the importance of maintaining access to mental health and addiction recovery services for all Virginians.