In this episode, the Michael Standaert and Sabrina Halvorson explore the implications of proposed Medicaid changes on rural hospitals in North Dakota. Initial concerns suggested significant potential harm, but further research reveals that exemptions and low percentages of affected individuals might mitigate these effects. The discussion covers the specifics of Medicaid work requirements, tribal exemptions, and how hospitals might adapt to these changes. They also delve into the challenges of reporting accurately and avoiding fear-mongering, while emphasizing the importance of representing facts correctly. Additional insights include potential future storylines and the ongoing investigation into long-term effects of policy changes on healthcare systems.

This week on The Backstory from the North Dakota News Cooperative, host Sabrina Halvorson talks with reporter Michael Standaert about his latest article uncovering the impact of federal funding cuts to AmeriCorps programs in rural North Dakota.

Standaert shares what he learned from educators and community members who relied on AmeriCorps support, particularly in small towns where one volunteer could make the difference between a functioning daycare or afterschool program and none at all. From paraprofessionals improving math scores in Elgin/New Leipzig schools to vital staffing support in Cooperstown, the ripple effects of these cuts are already being felt.

They also break down the reporting process, what it takes to track down stories like this, and why it’s important to shine a light on programs that many take for granted.

Episode highlights:

• The unseen roles AmeriCorps members fill in rural communities
• Why some programs were more effective, and more vulnerable, than others
• The challenges of covering cuts with little government transparency

Tune in for the full story behind the headlines.

In this episode, we expand on an earlier Backstory discussion with reporter Michael Standaert with an additional guest. Keli Berglund, the former Department Commander for Disabled American Veterans in North Dakota and current mayor of Lincoln, joins us to discuss the critical challenges faced by veterans in accessing healthcare, especially in rural areas. She highlights the impact of potential funding cuts on the VA’s administrative staff and how it could increase wait times and reduce the quality of care for veterans. Bergland emphasizes the importance of telehealth and mobile clinics in serving rural veterans and urges the community to voice their concerns to protect these essential services.

The added interview with Berglund begins at 5:53.

Keli Berglund (image provided by https://www.veterans.nd.gov/heroes/keli-berglund)