Medicaid Cuts Threaten Vital Drug and Mental Health Services in Tucson

In a transformative turn, Tucson resident Jacob Kirk, 25, has overcome his past troubles, including three felony convictions and addiction. After entering a residential drug-treatment program for three months, he embraced mental health care, receiving medication for anxiety and depression for the first time. Now sober for 27 months, he serves as an assistant manager at a transitional housing complex and has found joy in writing and music under the name J-Universe.

Kirk’s journey exemplifies the potential impact of Pima County’s prison-diversion programs for nonviolent offenders, though future changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) could jeopardize such initiatives. Advocates fear that proposed cuts to Arizona’s Medicaid, which could result in a loss of approximately $7.1 billion in funding through 2026, will have dire implications for those with substance-use disorders and mental-health issues.

Pima County officials express concern regarding the ongoing efforts to repeal ACA, stressing the essential nature of Medicaid for vulnerable populations. “The criminal-justice system is what occurs when health-care and education systems lack funding,” stated Pima County Public Defender Joel Feinman. “Investing in high-quality health care and education ultimately reduces criminal justice expenditures.”

Medicaid, crucial for low-income individuals, significantly expanded in Arizona in 2014, granting coverage even to childless adults like Kirk. After struggling with substance abuse since teenage years, his third felony conviction led to enrollment in AHCCCS and access to a program that collaborates with the Pima County Attorney’s Office to divert individuals from prison to treatment.

The Drug Treatment Alternative to Prison (DTAP) program offers coordinated treatment services, including job assistance. Under the ACA, treatment costs are covered, enabling many to transition from incarceration to rehabilitation. Chief Deputy Pima County Attorney Amelia Cramer cited the program’s success in providing essential support to individuals seeking recovery.

With proposed Medicare cuts potentially imminent, the DTAP program could face serious reductions. These cuts may force more individuals into incarceration instead of facilitating treatment options. “Where there’s no funding, there’s no help,” noted Kate Lawson, the program director.

Police Chief Chris Magnus warned of a potential rise in police calls as untreated individuals may resort to criminal activities if denied care. “It’s a public safety issue,” he said, highlighting the implications for community safety if mental health needs go unmet.

State Republican leaders, including Heather Carter and Governor Doug Ducey, have voiced concerns over the potential for substantial Medicaid reductions. Carter fears a regression to higher uninsured rates in Arizona, while Ducey emphasized specific areas that require attention in the Senate’s health bill proposals.

Kirk, reflecting on his journey, expressed uncertainty regarding his health coverage amid the federal health reform discussions. “I don’t know what would happen if I couldn’t get my meds,” he shared. “I don’t really want to find out.”

For further information on health issues, contact health reporter Stephanie Innes at 573-4134 or email sinnes@tucson.com. You can also follow her on Twitter at @stephanieinnes.