Medicaid in the Mountain State: The Unwinding through the Voices of Program Participants
Rhonda Rogombé, Health and Safety Net Policy Analyst | November 2024
Medicaid is more than just health insurance—it’s a lifeline for one in three West Virginians.
It ensures newborns and children get critical early care, provides life-saving treatment for seniors and people with disabilities, and offers a safeguard for working families, veterans, and those in recovery from substance use disorders. As of November 2024, 508,000 West Virginians rely on Medicaid for their health care.
During the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE), Medicaid served up to:
655,000 People
1 in 3 West Virginians
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Medicaid kept up to 655,000 people covered, offering stability in a time of uncertainty. Families didn’t have to worry about losing coverage in a crisis. But when federal protections ended in 2023, thousands were put at risk, not because they were ineligible, but due to paperwork issues and administrative hurdles.
Despite these challenges, Medicaid remains a stalwart of health and economic security in West Virginia. It keeps rural hospitals open, ensures access to mental health and substance use treatment, and allows seniors to age with dignity. Without it, too many families would have to make an impossible choice between health care and financial stability.
During the pandemic and its unwinding, WVCBP and West Virginians for Affordable Health Care (WVAHC) listened to Medicaid enrollees across the state: stories of relief, resilience, and frustration. Parents fighting to keep their kids covered, workers struggling to navigate the system, people in recovery finding the care they needed. These voices make one thing clear: Medicaid saves lives.
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“Medicaid saved my life.”
—Substance Use Disorder Recovery Patient, Cabell County
Female patient speaking with doctor during X ray scanning preparation
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“I was once addicted to drugs. I was having some terrible health issues that were taking a huge toll on me. What really helped me improve was Medicaid… I got the chance to meet with a doctor and he told me my seizures were because of my drug use. They got me the medication I needed and counseling. They actually communicated with me. The care meant so much.”
—Cabell County Resident
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“When you don’t have insurance, you can’t see anyone. [Before Medicaid] I had to travel hours to clinics to try and solve medical issues. It took years of me being in pain to finally start getting answers.”
—Kanawha County Resident
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“My son Jack was born with a congenital heart defect and that required regular checkups, medication, and surgeries. Medicaid has been a vital support system for my family as much as covering the medications to manage his conditions. Jack is thriving and we’re grateful for the program’s support on his journey.”
—Kanawha County Resident
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“I am now able to afford my medication for anxiety and depression. It was unaffordable before. Also, I am able to see my OBGYN nearby. I used to have to travel over an hour to see her at a different facility... Now that I have Medicaid, I can see her five minutes from where I work. It’s less expensive and much more convenient.”
—Kanahwa County Resident
Female middle-aged doctor using stethoscope to examine patient.
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“After an injury I had, I noticed that I started struggling with addiction to painkillers and opioids... I knew that this was not the life I wanted. Medicaid has helped me throughout my healing journey by providing outpatient counseling and medication assisted treatments, helping me to become better and improving my journey. I’m really grateful for this opportunity.”
—Substance Use Disorder Recovery Patient, Kanawha County Resident
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“I’ve felt embarrassed about having Medicaid, especially when people comment on me living off the government. But I’ve learned to prioritize my health and see seeking help as a sign of strength.”
—Berkeley County Resident
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“Before my child was born, I had some complications with the pregnancy. But thanks to Medicaid, I was able to give birth without worrying about the medical bills and the process was much easier.”
—Wood County Resident
Medicaid Stories
Medicaid’s Future Isn’t Guaranteed
Funding threats, policy restrictions, and administrative barriers put coverage at risk. We must protect and expand Medicaid to ensure every West Virginian has access to affordable, reliable health care.
