Speakers and panelists from the Medicaid anniversary event
The Horizon Foundation joined the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Maryland Citizens’ Health Initiative, Consumer Health Foundation and Baltimore Jewish council to host an event Oct. 20 marking 50 years of Medicaid’s impact in Maryland.
Medicaid is one of the nation’s most vital safety net programs, serving over 70 million Americans. In Maryland, Medicaid provides health and long-term care coverage to over 1.2 million Marylanders, including children, low-income individuals, pregnant women, people with disabilities and seniors.
The event opened with remarks by Van Mitchell, Maryland’s health secretary, and Cindy Mann, former director of Medicaid and CHIP at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Horizon Foundation CEO Nikki Highsmith Vernick served as a moderator. Panel discussions included current and former state and local health officials, health advocates and elected leaders. Congressman Elijah Cummings provided closing remarks.
This video, featuring the stories of Marylanders who have received much-needed health care coverage through Medicaid, also was presented at the event. The video was produced by New Lens, a youth-driven social justice organization that specializes in video production.
Read more from Center Maryland: Medicaid 50 Years Old and Still Going Strong
