Libby: Don’t be fooled by unhealthy narratives

The recent letter to the editor suggesting that Medicaid subsidizes “sloth, crime, and homelessness” or a political tool is not only offensive, but also factually wrong and dangerously misleading.

This kind of disinformation has long been used to discredit public programs that serve vulnerable communities, often for political gain. The reality is that most enrollees are children, seniors, people with disabilities, and working adults in low-wage jobs who do not receive employer-sponsored insurance. Medicaid isn’t a political scam, it’s a lifeline.

It is also a fiscally sound policy. Studies have shown there is a strong return on investment by reduced emergency room visits, better care of chronic disease, improved birth outcomes, and a healthier workforce. States that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act saw reductions in uncompensated care costs and economic growth through job creation and local spending.

Medicaid safeguards the health of our communities, especially those historically underserved or deliberately excluded. When attacked with false narratives, it is often part of a broader effort to undermine women’s reproductive health, weaken civil protections, and now, to systematically deport immigrants and eliminate marginalized populations altogether.

Let’s not be fooled by talking points designed to divide. Instead, let’s support and strengthen Medicaid—for the sake of our public health, economic resilience, and humanitarian values. Everybody’s health is important. Investing in people yields long-term benefits for us all.

Russell Libby, MD

Snowmass Village