Last week, Health & Medicine’s Policy Director, Wesley Epplin, joined Illinois Public Media’s The 21st Show to discuss the critical need to protect Medicaid. In a conversation about the future of healthcare in Illinois, he highlighted the devastating consequences of proposed Medicaid cuts and the urgent need for action.

Medicaid provides essential healthcare coverage to millions, and any reductions to the program would result in decreased access to care, unnecessary suffering, and preventable deaths. As Wesley explained, these proposals are not about improving healthcare but about shifting resources away from those who need them most.

“When political leaders talk about a ‘big, beautiful bill,’ we must recognize what’s truly at stake,” Wesley said. “Cutting health insurance coverage isn’t just a policy choice—it directly harms individuals, families, and communities.

To hear Wesley’s full interview and learn more about what’s at risk, listen to the discussion on The 21st Show.