UNMC’s Munroe-Meyer Institute (MMI) has joined forces with other organizations to highlight the work of Medicaid in Nebraska communities.
Medicaid is vital to the wellbeing of many Nebraskans with disabilities. Unfortunately, this critical health insurance program is often poorly understood and stigmatized. The “Medicaid Works” photo project promotes an accurate picture of the many ways this essential program supports thousands of Nebraskans every day.
With support from the Nebraska Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities, Nebraska Appleseed, in partnership with the Munroe-Meyer Institute and photographer Grace Young, has curated a series of photos illustrating the importance of Medicaid for five families in Nebraska.
With the valuable help of volunteers and partners, this series of photos from photographer Grace Young illustrates the importance of Medicaid for five families in Nebraska. These children and adults with disabilities rely on the Medicaid program to ensure their health, independence, financial stability, and overall quality of life.
“Medicaid helped me beat the odds,” said JaToya McIntosh of Omaha. “I wasn’t supposed to walk past 18.I am now 33 and still walking — limited, but I can do it. Medicaid has paid for my wheelchair, physical therapy, and the medicine I need. It was a large part of the reason I am still able to walk — that and my sheer determination.”
“For people with disabilities, Medicaid is a lifeline to community living,” said Sarah Swanson, MMI’s liaison to Nebraska Appleseed for the project. “Medicaid can pay for things private health care insurers won’t.
“We felt this project was very important to help eliminate some of the negative stereotypes associated with Medicaid.”
These children and adults with disabilities rely on the Medicaid program to ensure their health, independence, financial stability, and overall quality of life, Swanson said.
To view these photos and stories, click here to learn more about how Medicaid works for families, neighbors, and communities throughout Nebraska.
Feel free to add your own story about how Medicaid is important to you!