Expanding BadgerCare should be a no-brainer for Wisconsin | Brady McIntosh

A new Wisconsin Policy Forum report shows that Wisconsin could save $1.7 billion over just two years if it expands Medicaid , known as BadgerCare in our state. After those two years, Wisconsin would continue to reap hundreds of millions of dollars in savings. Of course, expanding Medicaid would also improve the health of all Wisconsinites, regardless of the political party they belong to.

As an emergency medicine specialist in Milwaukee, I've personally seen the consequences of delayed or forgone medical treatments from patients with insufficient health care coverage. Many of the patients I care for are forced to choose between paying their bills and buying their medications. Consequently, treatable conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol can spiral out of control, leading to heart attacks, strokes and preventable deaths.

Despite broad public support — with 70% of Wisconsin voters in favor — Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, continuously blocks these efforts. As a doctor, I urge Speaker Vos to prioritize Wisconsinites' wellbeing. States that have expanded Medicaid have seen significant improvements in health outcomes.

Wisconsin has the chance to save money and make a meaningful difference by expanding BadgerCare. It's time for our legislators to act.

Dr. Brady McIntosh, Shorewood