Paraquad’s Medicaid Ambassadors Program
Paraquad dedicates its time to pushing the world closer to having no barriers for people with disabilities. One way we accomplish this is by advocating for equitable access to healthcare. Our Medicaid Ambassadors Program shares stories of recipients and emphasizes the positive impact this program has had on them.
Read on to learn more about why we started, how we’re sharing experiences of Missouri Medicaid plans and how you can get involved.
The Health of Our Communities
Consistent health care and medical insurance coverage is crucial to the health of our communities. All of us, regardless of ability or identity, can be impacted by unexpected medical costs. It should be easy for all of us to access high quality and affordable health care that prevents illness and promotes health and wellness.
Many members of the Paraquad community have Medicaid coverage. In fact, 39% of non-elderly adults on Medicaid in Missouri have a documented disability. People on disability share stories that demonstrate that:
Medicaid saves lives.
Medicaid is there to help when a disability is created through a life-changing accident.
Many people with disabilities are able access the medical specialists and equipment that their conditions may require through Medicaid.
Some people in the community do not fully understand the Medicaid program and may even have negative attitudes about it. We believe healthcare should be a nonpartisan issue. Disability is an identity group that any person may join at some point in their lifespan. We all deserve access to the resources needed to live satisfying and independent lives.
Our Mission
Paraquad has seen the value of Missouri Medicaid plans firsthand. Some people with disabilities are unable to afford to work or retire because of how the eligibility rules are set up. This can leave them without health care coverage from an employer or the means to pay for insurance independently. Paraquad has been working to change the rules so people can work and marry without experiencing hardship.
Lack of access quickly becomes a problem, as many disabilities require complex medical care such as surgeries, prosthetics, occupational therapy and more. Medicaid is essential health insurance that saves lives, improves access and keeps people with disabilities in the community.
Our team hopes to change the narrative around Medicaid by telling people’s stories. In the past, we have published entire books of personal experiences — but to make the stories accessible to all long term, we are switching to a digital format. Paraquad’s upcoming blog series will include interviews with each of our Medicaid Ambassadors, where they have a chance to explain how Missouri Medicaid plans have benefited them personally.
Share Your Medicaid Story
When it comes to advocacy, we have always found strength in numbers. We believe that with each new story we share, our influence grows stronger. Our efforts to raise awareness of health care and the insurance, services and devices we need are ongoing. Right now, we aim to create a network of at least 18 people with disabilities willing to share their stories through the Paraquad blog.
Ready to become one of Paraquad’s Medicaid Ambassadors? Contact Jeanette Mott Oxford at joxford@paraquad.org or give us a call at 314-289-4303.
