DES MOINES — In case you missed it, U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) recently introduced a new resolution to protect Medicaid and SNAP benefits for Iowa’s most vulnerable after touring MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines. During the visit, Rep. Nunn met directly with MercyOne physicians and staff to hear how these programs impact the health and well-being of Iowans across the Third District. Watch the recap here or by clicking below:
Doctors featured in the video include Dr. Hijinio Carreon and Dr. Mustafa Eldadah. Other medical professionals Nunn spoke with on the tour included Dr. David Chew, Dr. Tom Wernimont, Dr. Brad Wilcox, and Imaging Director Cindy Hecht.
“Medicaid gives more than 150,000 people in our communities access to medical care, while SNAP ensures that 60,000 individuals know where their next meal is coming from,” said Rep. Nunn. “I heard from doctors and patients about why defending these critical programs is so important, and how my legislation will ensure D.C. cuts do not impact vulnerable Iowans.”
One out of every four households in the Third District rely on Medicaid or SNAP for their everyday needs. The Defending Medicaid and SNAP Resolution would block any budget reconciliation bill that reduces Medicaid or SNAP benefits for children, seniors, pregnant women, or individuals with disabilities. At the same time, it preserves Congress’s ability to root out fraud and abuse in these vital programs.
“The Iowa Hospital Association appreciates Congressman Nunn’s efforts to protect Medicaid eligibility and benefits for the more than 700,000 Iowans who rely on the program for health coverage,” said Chris Mitchell, Iowa Hospital Association President and CEO. “In the last fiscal year, Medicaid covered more than 13,000 births, 63,000 inpatient stays and one million outpatient visits in Iowa’s hospitals. Medicaid is crucial for hospitals, providing essential funding that ensures access to healthcare for Iowans who might otherwise be unable to afford it.”
The Defending Medicaid and SNAP Resolution applies to all reconciliation bills and related amendments or reports considered in the 119th Congress.
Text of the resolution can be found here.
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