Michelle Lizoette

Since 2015 Montana Medicaid has made a profound impact on Sweet Grass County. I have noticed this even more as I have opened my own practice and become and employer in my small town. On average, 30% of my practice is supported by this program, Montana Healthy Kids, and other Medicaid programs. This has been a vital service expansion for my community. In addition, annual checks have kept a lot of these patients out of the Emergency Room for other needs that will continue to keep costs down and keep care from being fragmented, which is known to cause poorer health outcomes. 

I have seen an increase in the number of patients who are able to get preventative care for the first time in years, and it has helped improve their daily lives and function as we have diagnosed many with underlying conditions such as hypertension and diabetes and have gotten them on appropriate treatment. Even more important in rural areas is the impact of mental health. My practice has expanded significantly to care for more mental health than ever before. More individuals are seeking care and are now financially able to receive treatment. This has had a positive impact on families as well as the community at large. 

If those who have gotten coverage under this program lose it due to a lack of continued funding and support, I am fearful about the outcome. The communities in which they reside and those who are most in need will suffer in overall health and well-being. I think it is important to keep Montana Medicaid Programs as the continued support and care for those Montanans who need it the most and provide access to those who are our most vulnerable and at risk.