health essay

health essay . a short essay about health policies

6

'Health Policy Article: The Impact of Medicaid Expansion on Healthcare Access and Quality'

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One of the most important provisions of the Affordable Care Act was allowing the states to expand Medicaid eligibility for persons with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level. This legislative policy has enormously affected how public health and care are provided, with differing results in states based on the states' acceptance of the expansion. Medicaid expansion has produced worthwhile results overall, increasing healthcare availability and health improvements, yet most states refuse to embrace the practice, creating healthcare differences that can be preventable and unfair.

Medicaid expansion has been beneficial in covering the number of uninsured people, especially those living in poverty. Hospitals in expansion states have seen a massive reduction in uncompensated care costs, which enhances financial sustainability and facilitates investment in care services. ( Allen2025 ). Based on information from the Kaiser Family Foundation, expansion states have shown fewer disparities and improved chronic disease management, indicating the effectiveness of the policy in enhancing the quality of patient care.

However, by refusing to expand Medicaid, some states have left a coverage gap for millions, making it too expensive to be eligible 'for traditional Medicaid but too little to afford private health insurance or qualify for subsidized health plans on the ACA marketplace.' This widening of the gap worsens inequality in healthcare and causes poorer health results, particularly in marginalized populations. The inequity of policy adoption sabotages the general goal of universal availability of quality healthcare - a goal founded not only in public policy but biblical principles of justice and compassion.

From a cost point of view, the Medicaid extension has been economically prudent. The federal government first paid in full for newly eligible enrollees, then reduced coverage to 90 percent, where it remains today. Research demonstrates the coverage's expanded scope holds down overall healthcare expenditures because improvements in preventative care and emergency room visits lessen. Besides, healthier populations work more productively for society and impose a lower long-term burden on public resources (Soyege et al,2024). States that expanded Medicaid experienced an economic improvement, such as creating hospital jobs and a lower financial burden on hospitals.

Notwithstanding these apparent advantages, political resentment persists and is more often than not ideologically based rather than driven by evidence-based evaluation. Such resistance threatens the welfare of the vulnerable groups and prevents actions to establish a fair healthcare system.

To provide necessary healthcare to all Americans, Congress should encourage those states that have not expanded Medicaid with increased federal funding or a federal fallback option around state inertia. In addition, policies should be amended so that Medicaid expansion becomes compulsory, eliminating the coverage gap and advancing health equity.

The denial of healthcare to the poor and underserved from a biblical perspective is opposite to the Christian calling to love our neighbors and take care of the least amongst us (Matthew 25:35-40). Providing healthcare is harmonious with the biblical call to do justice (Isaiah 1:17) and demonstrates God's compassion for the poor. Whatever one might be, expanding Medicaid is a good idea. It is guided by the morals established in equity, stewardship, and love premises.

The conclusion is that Medicaid expansion under the ACA is an excellent healthcare policy whose impacts have increased access and reduced the cost, as evidenced in the states that have adopted this policy. Its disjointed exposure endangers public health and disparages the biblical value of justice and compassion. Congress should be doing its bit and make nationwide expansion compulsory, so that every citizen, regardless of where they live or what they earn, can receive the help they need.

References

Allen, N. S. (2025). Assessing the Burden of Uncompensated Care In South Carolina Hospitals: The Role of Medicaid Expansion, Telemedicine and Primary Care. https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/theses/1054/

Soyege, O. S., Nwokedi, C. N., Tomoh, B. O., Mustapha, A. Y., Mbata, A. O., Balogun, O. D., ... & Imohiosen, C. E. (2024). Public Health Crisis Management and Emergency Preparedness: Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure Against Pandemics and Bioterrorism Threats. Journal of Frontiers in Multidisciplinary Research, 5(2), 52-68. https://www.multidisciplinaryfrontiers.com/uploads/archives/20250319124700_FMR-2025-1-015.1.pdf

Letter to Legislator

Dear [Legislator's Name],

I am writing to you as a concerned constituent and a promoter of equitable access to healthcare. I encourage you to do your best regarding mandatory Medicaid expansion in all states under the ACA. While the ACA's Medicaid expansion provision has significantly improved health outcomes and reduced costs in participating states, millions of low-income Americans remain without coverage in states that have opted out. This coverage gap threatens public health, imposes financial burdens on hospitals, and disproportionately harms our most vulnerable populations.

The benefits of Medicaid expansion are well-documented. States that adopted the policy report lower uninsured rates, reduced uncompensated care costs, and improved chronic disease outcomes. Expansion also stimulates local economies through job creation in the healthcare sector. From a fiscal perspective, the federal government covers 90% of expansion costs, easing the financial load on state budgets.

Healthcare should not depend on a person's ZIP code. As someone who believes in justice and compassion, I see this issue not just as a matter of policy but of moral responsibility. Scripture calls us to care for the sick and serve the marginalized (Matthew 25:35-40). Denying access to care is inconsistent with these values.

I respectfully request that you support federal legislation requiring Medicaid expansion in all states or pursue initiatives that incentivize holdout states to act. Your leadership on this issue could help millions access life-saving care.

Thank you for your service and attention to this urgent matter.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your City, State]