Karen Burkes, Director of State Operated Healthcare Facilities | North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Karen Burkes, Director of State Operated Healthcare Facilities | North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Governor Josh Stein and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai convened a roundtable in Charlotte to address the potential impacts of proposed federal Medicaid cuts. The event brought together health care professionals, Medicaid beneficiaries, and local leaders to emphasize the significance of Medicaid funding.
"Protecting North Carolinians’ health care access is critically important," stated Governor Stein. He praised the state's bipartisan efforts to expand Medicaid and urged Congress to maintain this spirit in safeguarding Medicaid.
In North Carolina, over three million residents benefit from NC Medicaid, including more than 640,000 who gained coverage through recent expansions. Secretary Sangvai noted that new enrollees are receiving essential care, with over five million prescriptions filled for conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. "Medicaid increases access to high-quality care for individuals, children, and families," he said.
The discussion was hosted by Care Ring, a non-profit organization providing health services in Charlotte for nearly 70 years. Mecklenburg County has the highest number of Medicaid enrollees in the state. Care Ring CEO Tchernavia Montgomery expressed gratitude for Governor Stein's recognition of their work: "Medicaid expansion has enabled our team to help even more families."
Tashenda Gibson, an early childhood caregiver enrolled in NC Medicaid, shared her experience as a beneficiary. "NC Medicaid has been a life-saving component of care for me and my family," she said.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings highlighted how Medicaid supports public safety by providing resources during mental health crises: "Providing resources for those in crisis contributes to a safer community."
Despite broad support for Medicaid, Congress is considering significant cuts that could result in a $6 billion loss for North Carolina's healthcare providers. This could lead to over 640,000 residents losing coverage and increase state costs.
Other attendees included Dr. Raynard Washington from Mecklenburg County Public Health Department; Dr. April Milan Miller from Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center; Eddie Caldwell from NC Sheriffs’ Association; State Representatives Caleb Theodros and Carla Cunningham.
Governor Stein recently sent a letter urging North Carolina’s congressional delegation to oppose any budget proposals cutting Medicaid funds.
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