Families across Nevada, especially those caring for children and adults with disabilities, are growing deeply concerned about possible Medicaid cuts that could remove the support they depend on every day. For many, Medicaid isn’t just health coverage. It’s a lifeline for therapy, caregiving, and basic needs that allow their loved ones to live safely at home and grow.
Losing Respite Services— and Peace of Mind
Pam Barrick, a full-time caregiver and mother in Reno, takes care of her son Carson around the clock. Carson lives with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism—a complex mix of conditions that require constant care. Pam explained that her family depends on Medicaid for important services like therapy and in-home help. Without that support, she said her son would lose the care he needs to stay safe and healthy.
Recently, Pam said they even lost one of their respite care providers. Respite care gives parents short breaks from caregiving, which is important for mental and physical health. She worries that more cuts could leave them without any help at all. Many of Carson’s therapies aren’t covered by their private insurance, and the costs would be too high to pay out of pocket.
It Could Happen to Anyone
Pam’s message was simple: “Disability can happen to anyone, at any time.” She wants lawmakers to think about families like hers, not just numbers on a page.
Another voice in the community, Shelby Benzing, is a college student at the University of Nevada, Reno. Shelby also lives with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair. She relies on Medicaid for services that enable her to live independently and attend school. Shelby said that the thought of losing that support makes her anxious. Without Medicaid, her ability to study, move around, and live a full life would be at risk.
115,000 Nevadans Could Be Affected
Both Pam and Shelby are part of a larger group of Nevadans—about 115,000 people—who could be affected by recent proposals to reduce Medicaid funding. According to a report from the Joint Economic Committee, individuals may lose coverage or face reduced services if the changes are implemented.
The concern isn’t just about doctor visits. Medicaid helps cover the costs of therapy, daily support, transportation, and in-home care. These services often aren’t covered by regular insurance, especially for children with autism or people with lifelong conditions.
If Medicaid is cut, families could face tough choices: canceling therapies, going without caregivers, or even considering institutional care—something most parents work hard to avoid.
For families like Pam’s, Medicaid is more than just a health program. It’s what allows their child to stay home, get therapy, and live with dignity.
Their message to lawmakers is clear: Protect Medicaid. Please don’t turn away from the people who depend on it every single day.
Our Team at Nevada Autism
From all of us at Nevada Autism, we understand how heavy these concerns can feel. When your child depends on services like speech therapy, occupational support, or just consistent care, the thought of losing that lifeline is more than stressful — it’s overwhelming. We’ve walked alongside families who’ve faced these same fears, and we want you to know: you’re not alone.
Our team is here to support families navigating autism with compassion and clarity — whether that means helping you access therapy, understanding your options, or simply offering a steady hand. Every child deserves the chance to grow, connect, and thrive — and every parent deserves real support in making that happen.
If you’re feeling uncertain about your loved one’s Autism status, please reach out. We’re in this together.
