States take aim at Medicaid

At least 25 states have enacted or proposed cuts in health-insurance programs for the poor, potentially leaving millions of patients with reduced levels of care or no coverage at all. The cuts come as states are making moves to close record budget deficits while facing increased demand for services. Across the country, states have pared services under Medicaid, and 12 states have also targeted the State Children's Health Insurance Program, said a report to be released by Families USA. The group estimates that more than 250,000 people will lose care because of cuts already enacted and proposed cuts could affect millions more.