The ongoing government shutdown has raised concerns about the impact on health programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). While core programs such as Medicare and Medicaid will continue to operate because their funding is built into law, some benefits and services may face disruptions.

A key issue in the shutdown is whether Republican leaders will agree to Democratic demands to extend Obamacare subsidies, which are set to expire at the end of the year. These subsidies have made ACA plans more affordable, and their expiration could lead to significant premium increases. Democrats are also pushing to reverse Medicaid cuts made during President Donald Trump's administration, but Republicans have shown little interest.

One immediate casualty of the shutdown is the Medicare telehealth benefit, which allowed patients to consult with doctors from home. This benefit expired with the shutdown and will remain unavailable unless Congress acts to restore funding. Telehealth services were especially vital for seniors and those in rural areas who face barriers to accessing in-person care.

Despite the shutdown, Medicare and Medicaid will continue to provide coverage, though there may be delays in payments to healthcare providers due to furloughed staff at the Department of Health and Human Services. This could lead to longer wait times for patients and potential reluctance from doctors to schedule appointments.

The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and ACA coverage will also continue, but the expiration of ACA subsidies could result in a significant increase in out-of-pocket costs for millions of Americans. USA Today reports that without these subsidies, ACA premiums could more than double.

Community Health Centers, which provide essential services to low-income and uninsured individuals, face uncertainty as they rely heavily on federal funding. The National Association of Community Health Centers has expressed concern about the potential impact of the shutdown on these centers.

As the shutdown continues, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health agencies may face staffing shortages, affecting their ability to monitor diseases and issue public health guidance.

Bill Handel