Kennedy Bieber’s Treatment and Medicaid Concerns
Kennedy Bieber, a 6-year-old from North Carolina, attends treatment sessions at least twice a week after being diagnosed with Noonan syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects development.
He is one of approximately 600,000 individuals in the state who could potentially lose healthcare access due to proposed cuts to Medicaid funding. President Trump’s plan, often referred to as the “Big and beautiful bill,” is under consideration by Congress, according to the state’s Medicaid office.
The Community Alternative Program for Kids in North Carolina covers most treatments and medications for patients under 20 who have significant medical needs. Without the CAP/C waiver, the family claims they would face over $4,000 monthly for treatments and medications, even with private health insurance.
“This medicine would cost us $3,200 a month if it weren’t for Medicaid, as our primary insurance denies us coverage,” Marilyn stated. The family worries that, should the Capitol Hill proposal pass, they may have to ration Kennedy’s treatment.
Jay Rudham, the assistant Medicaid secretary in North Carolina, mentioned that the proposed federal cuts “will affect the entire program eventually.” The state’s Medicaid program currently supports over 3 million individuals receiving medical benefits. Officials have stated that the CAP/C program might be at risk if federal funding falls short.
“Taking away $700 billion from Medicaid nationwide means we can’t maintain coverage and benefits as they are,” Rudham pointed out.
When asked about her message to Congress, Marilyn expressed the need for changes that do not eliminate services: “The goal should be to modify the healthcare system so that everyone can receive adequate care.”
