Our Stories
Across the region, Appalachians are sharing their health care stories. Learn more about how the Medicaid program and health coverage has positively impacted the lives and health of our Appalachian neighbors.
Watch Dr. Chuck Johnson’s Health Care Story, Kentucky
Read Hannah’s Story, Zanesville, Ohio
My name is Hannah M, I am from Zanesville Ohio. I am 21 years old. Medicaid has helped me with my 2 pregnancies and having my kids. I would be in debt the rest of my life just for bringing two lives into this world if not for Medicaid. Medicaid has also helped me with... Read more
Read Scotty’s Story, Knoxville, Tennessee
"Ten years after their son’s death, Scotty’s parents wonder what it will take to get the attention of Tennessee’s Governor and State Legislature. The policies that removed Scotty from coverage persist to this day." Read more
Watch Rev. Kent Gilbert’s Health Care Story, Kentucky
Watch Crystal’s Story, Gilmer County, West Virginia
"If I had Medicaid for the rest of that (postpartum) year... I wouldn't have endured that stigma, I would have had a stronger support system.... I would have been more whole." Read more
Read Donna M. Mosby’s Story, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
"Seeking medical attention or paying the rent should never be competing choices in managing one’s health care." Read more
Read Larry & Linda’s Story, Knoxville, Tennessee
"Linda has TennCare and it has saved her life. Without being overly dramatic or emotional it is simply a fact. It has saved her life." Read more
Watch Jessicka Shepherd’s Health Care Story, Kentucky
“I cannot live without insulin... I’m going to get an insulin pump. Without Passport (Medicaid), I probably would have never gotten that. I would never have been able to afford it.”
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Read Hunter Stark’s Story, Charleston, West Virginia
“I’m really grateful that Medicaid has helped me through this time in my life and my daughter’s life.” Read more
Watch Dr. Branham’s Story, an OB-GYN in Floyd County, Kentucky
"It wasn't until the Affordable Care Act, those patients for the first time were able to get gynecological care." Read more
Read Brook’s Medicaid Story, Charleston, West Virginia
“Not only did Medicaid cover the birth of Willow but it has also provided lifesaving treatments for Brody, who has cystic fibrosis. Covering the doctor’s visits, now telemedicine visits via online portals, a vest, nebulizer, and nutritional supplements, Medicaid is helping this family stay healthy physically and preparing for their future from a financial perspective.” Read more
Read Judy’s Story, Tennessee
“I had several elderly patients who were in serious trouble. They lived alone and had no family to care for them...There is no doubt the (Medicaid) CHOICES program saved their lives.” Read more
