WASHINGTON, DC—Major cuts to Medicaid would have a disproportionately harsh effect on black and Latino Americans, who are much more likely than others to depend on the program for regular treatment for chronic medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, chronic lung disease, heart disease, and stroke, according to a report released today by a broad coalition of major health, civil rights and consumer groups.

The report, Medicaid: A Lifeline for Blacks and Latinos with Serious Health Care Needs, is the first ever to reveal details on the proportion of chronically ill minority Americans who benefit from Medicaid, the state and federally funded health insurance program for low income people.  It raises concerns about reductions in Medicaid funding resulting in many seriously-ill blacks and Latinos no longer being able to fill essential prescriptions, keep up with key screenings, or see a doctor if their condition worsens or reoccurs.