Dear State Legislators,
As Wyoming healthcare providers, we know that our patients and their families deserve the freedom to thrive, not just survive. We are on the frontlines of growing patient medical debt, an opioid epidemic, and one of the highest per capita suicide rates. Closing the coverage gap will significantly improve the quality of life for our patients and the economic well-being of the communities we serve.
Wyomingites with incomes up to $20,800 yearly (138% of the federal poverty level) will be able to see the doctor. Many hard-working people fall into the "coverage gap.” Without Medicaid, they cannot afford private insurance. Closing this coverage gap ensures they have insurance to see a doctor or be admitted to a hospital if needed. Women are particularly impacted, and Wyoming ranks 47th for coverage, access, and affordability for women's health.
Our patients are feeling the pressure of inaction. 10% of Wyomingnites have medical debt in collections, with a median amount of $2,516. Patients frequently must choose between their family's economic stability and health. Far too often, Wyoming families have conversations about whether they can afford a doctor's visit or a medical procedure.
Wyoming providers are missing out on the benefits. Wyoming is now the only state in the Rocky Mountain region that has not expanded Medicaid. Since 2010, Wyoming has foregone more than $1 billion by not expanding Medicaid. Without care and treatment, our patients and communities are negatively affected. Patients not being covered by insurance also impacts the hospitals we work in and the businesses we run. Without closing the coverage gap, they often go uncompensated for care provided.
Closing the coverage gap could create innovations, jobs, and economic growth in Wyoming. Over the next five years, expansion could create 2,000 jobs and grow economic output by $1.5 billion. Since expanding Medicaid, Montana's expansion has supported 7,500 jobs and $475 million in personal income growth. A thriving Wyoming will be more attractive to recruiting and retaining providers to live and work in our great state. Unlike our neighboring states, Wyoming cannot innovate in responding to a behavioral health crisis. Closing the coverage gap means the state could bring innovations and resources to change the state's mental health trajectory.
We cannot afford to wait any longer. We urge you to act now for the sake of our families, neighbors, patients, hospitals, and the future of Wyoming. Join the 40 other states that have expanded Medicaid and help create a healthier Wyoming for this generation and the next.
We owe it to Wyomingites to close the coverage gap.
Respectfully,
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