Help Shape the Future of Health Care in Missouri

Help Shape the Future of Health Care in Missouri

A Storytelling Project from the Community Health Commission of Missouri (CHCM) and Families USA

The Community Health Commission of Missouri (CHCM) is launching a storytelling campaign to make sure the voices of Missourians are heard in decisions about health care. We believe that the people most affected by health policies—community members, Medicaid recipients, caregivers, and providers—should lead the conversation about what needs to change.

What This Project Is About

We’re collecting real stories from people across Missouri to show why Medicaid and affordable health care coverage are essential. These stories will help protect access to care, push back against harmful policy changes, and highlight the real-life impact of coverage on individuals, families, and communities.

With your permission, your story could be shared through videos, photos, written narratives, or social media to educate the public and inform policymakers. You will have a say in how your story is told, and you will always review and approve it before it is shared.

Who We’re Looking to Hear From

We want to speak with people whose experiences reflect some of the biggest threats to health coverage, including:

·      Medicaid expansion enrollees at risk of losing coverage

·      People facing work reporting requirements

·      Those impacted by rural hospital closures or cuts to provider access

·      People who will face premium spikes if they lose subsidies (APTCs)

·      Residents of rural communities, small towns, and historically disinvested neighborhoods

·      Individuals open to having their stories shared publicly, including with the press, on social media, and with policymakers

What Participation Looks Like

If you choose to participate:

·      Interview & Consent – You’ll take part in an interview (by video, phone, or in person) and decide how your story can be shared.

·      Collaboration – We’ll work with Families USA to create a video or written version of your story.

·      Review & Approval – You’ll review the final version and approve it before it’s made public.

·      Visibility – Your story may be used in advocacy efforts, media coverage, or educational materials to make sure real community experiences shape health care policy.

·      Participants will receive a $250 stipend in recognition of their time and expertise.

Why This Matters

Decisions about Medicaid and health coverage are being made right now that could affect millions. By sharing your story, you can help:

·      Protect health care access in Missouri

·      Show the human impact of proposed changes

·      Influence lawmakers and the public with firsthand experiences

Our Commitment to You

CHCM’s approach is rooted in Equity-Centered Trauma-Informed Care, meaning:

·      We respect your story and your boundaries

·      You decide how and where your story is shared

·      We will provide support before, during, and after your participation