Medicaid Was Meant to Be a Safety Net—Not a Permanent Handout

Millions of healthy adults choosing not to work are straining this healthcare program for the poor

For too long, Medicaid has been stretched beyond its original purpose, funding millions of healthy adults who choose not to work while fraud drains $50 billion. I’ve been on Medicaid—I know firsthand how vital it is. But it was never meant to be a permanent welfare program for those who could support themselves.

Slowing spending isn’t heartless—it’s common sense as our country staggers under nearly $37 trillion in debt. Leaders in Washington are considering reforms that are necessary to ensure Medicaid remains a true safety net for the most vulnerable, not a limitless entitlement that punishes taxpayers and undermines personal responsibility.

Read more about Medicaid in my latest for U.S. News & World Report.

Warmly,

Carrie