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MEDICAID STORIES

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Medicaid is Health Insurance

Medicaid is a health insurance program that helps thousands of South Dakotans access needed health care. Together, the Get Covered Coalition is working to raise awareness, connect people with the help they need to enroll, and reduce barriers that prevent people from getting covered. To learn more and get involved, contact Liz Schenkel.

Medicaid Matters to Me

There are many misconceptions about Medicaid. Our goal is to break the stigmas surrounding Medicaid through storytelling. Here, you’ll find stories about how the program helps Dakotans live healthier lives in their time of need—and we invite you to share your own story. Why does Medicaid matter to you?

Medicaid in South Dakota

26% of births are paid for by Medicaid, ensuring access to prenatal, maternity, and postpartum care.

Medicaid covers 30% of all children in SD, including children in foster care and those needing special-needs care.

49% of seniors and people with disabilities receive nursing home and community-based care through Medicaid.

Medicaid is the largest source of funding for mental health and substance use care.

Featured Story

Medicaid Empowered Ellen, a College Student, Through Pregnancy and the NICU Experience

Medicaid Empowered Ellen, a College Student, Through Pregnancy and the NICU Experience

I was 19 when I found out I was pregnant and only a sophomore in college. I didn't have anyone to lean on as I was unwelcome by my family members. I had no idea how I was going to afford to have my baby as a poor college student. My OB/GYN told me to meet with financial aid during my first appointment and I am so grateful for her to this day. The financial team at my clinic sat me down, talked me through the process for applying for Medicaid and the benefits of it. I had a rough pregnancy with lots of illness that resulted in an emergency c-section with my son needing to stay a week in the NICU after birth. This would have been a massive financial debt—I would probably still be working my way out of—for the life of my child. My son was born with different health conditions that require specialists still to this day but without Medicaid, I wouldn't have been able to get him the help he needed, most likely making his conditions worse over time. Without Medicaid, I wouldn't have been able to get him the help he needed, most likely making his conditions worse over time.  I graduated college early and am in a professional career that has allowed me to not rely on Medicaid. I am so grateful for the support Medicaid provided to me and my son and work to share the importance of Medicaid and also how…

Liz Schenkel

SD External Affairs Manager at CHAD

 

My experience helped me understand the challenges people face when it comes to getting access to the health care and resources they need to live well. This is what prompted me to become a social worker interested in making big system changes to eliminate barriers for people. 

READ LIZ'S STORY

Passionate about improving Medicaid in South Dakota?
Learn how you can join the Get Covered Coalition or email Liz at eschenkel@communityhealthcare.net. 

MORE MEDICAID STORIES

Medicaid Empowered Ellen, a College Student, Through Pregnancy and the NICU Experience

Medicaid Empowered Ellen, a College Student, Through Pregnancy and the NICU Experience

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Medicaid Gave Chelsea a Chance to Heal

Medicaid Gave Chelsea a Chance to Heal

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Queen Doesn’t Have to Choose Between Feeding Her Kids and Giving Them Health Care

Queen Doesn’t Have to Choose Between Feeding Her Kids and Giving Them Health Care

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Through storytelling, we reduce stigma
and build meaningful connections.

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