Advocacy and Health Policy

Medicaid (called “Medical Assistance” or “MA” in Minnesota) is the largest children's health program in the United States. It is a joint federal-state program that provides health coverage to certain categories of low-income people, including children, pregnant women, parents of eligible children and people with disabilities. It covers a broad range of health care services, including physician and hospital visits, well-child care, health screenings, and vision and dental care with few costs paid by the family. Nationally, children make up half of all Medicaid enrollees but account for less than 20 percent of the costs.

The Children’s advocacy team works on a number of issues that impact our ability to provide the best care for all kids and improve the overall health of children and their families. The advocacy team generally focuses its work in two areas: issues that impact the delivery of pediatric health care and broader child health and wellbeing issues.

As a non-profit hospital, Children’s identifies and works to address pressing health needs of children in our communities. Children’s reports on this work in two ways:

Every day decisions are made — in the legislature and throughout the community — that impact health and health care for children. But, kids don’t always have a voice in those discussions. Children’s Minnesota has an advocacy team that calls attention to health and health care issues that impact children and their families.  And, you can help. Learn how you can be a voice for children.

In June, Children’s participated in the Children’s Hospital Association's Family Advocacy Day.

The bill signed by Gov. Mark Dayton is one that satisfies most in the health and human services committee.

Changes to Minnesota's newborn screening program have serious impacts for families. Help us restore the program so all kids can have a chance at a healthy start.