People with cancer or HIV could lose Medicaid under new work rules, advocates say

Advocates are raising alarms that new work requirements for Medicaid recipients could lead to vulnerable individuals, including those with cancer or HIV, losing essential health coverage. The Trump administration's proposed rules mandate that adults maintain employment for 80 hours per month to remain eligible for Medicaid benefits.

Under the new regulations, individuals seeking an exemption from the work requirement would need to provide proof that they are too sick to work. Health advocates express serious concern that this standard may be excessively stringent and difficult for many chronically ill or disabled individuals to meet. They fear this could result in a significant loss of healthcare access for those who are already struggling.

The potential impact on individuals with serious health conditions like cancer and HIV is particularly worrying. These patients often face fluctuating health statuses and may not be able to consistently meet an 80-hour work threshold, even when undergoing treatment. Advocates argue that such requirements could jeopardize their health and well-being, pushing them further into precarious situations.