Protect Medicaid in Missouri

We want to hear your Medicaid stories!

Right now, Congress is considering a federal budget reconciliation bill that could result in devastating cuts to Medicaid. These cuts would impact millions—including children, older adults, people with disabilities, and working families across Missouri.

Our team at the Community Health Commission of Missouri (CHCM), is collecting stories from Missourians who have been impacted by Medicaid. We want to hear about your experiences and Medicaid's role in helping you get critical care, support a loved one, or bridging a gap during hard times.

Share your MO Medicaid story

Missouri Invites Public Input on Rural Health Transformation Program

Monday, September 15, 2025

Overview

The Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), through its MO HealthNet Division, is seeking public comment on the new Rural Health Transformation Program, a major federal initiative created under H.R.1, otherwise known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The program will distribute $50 billion nationwide between 2026 and 2030 to strengthen and innovate rural health care.

As Missouri prepares its application, community input will be critical. Each state must select at least three of nine eligible funding categories, and priorities identified during this public comment period will directly guide Missouri’s request. While the exact amount of funding Missouri may receive is still unknown, decisions made now will shape how rural communities access care in the years ahead.

Kirk Mathews, Chief Information Officer for Missouri Medicaid and a member of CHCM’s Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of broad participation:

“We want to seek input from all corners of the state. We have set up a public comment opportunity on our DSS website and if you have an idea on how to best use some of these funds, go to the DSS website and put in your ideas.”

Kirk Mathews, Chief Information Officer for Missouri Medicaid and a member of CHCM’s Board of Directors

Read additional quotes from Kirk via this article from MissouriNet.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is expected to release additional application guidance soon, with federal officials required to review all 50 state applications on a tight timeline before the end of 2025.

How to Participate

Your voice will help shape Missouri’s path forward in ensuring strong, accessible, and equitable rural health care.

Submit Public Comment Today