My daughter, like many others in Mississippi, is greatly disadvantaged by the existing medical facility structure. She is autistic and relies on the support provided by SSI and Medicaid. However, the Medicaid coverage for dental care, which it currently deems a 'luxury', is severely lacking. Accessing dental check-ups and cleanings demands an additional plan, which she cannot afford from her fixed income of $700 monthly. Any significant dental treatments, such as tooth extractions, render futile as Medicaid offers no coverage for replacements like dentures. Our existing system leaves her and many others vulnerable, unable to access basic yet essential dental care due to high costs.

We are not alone in this struggle. In Mississippi, one in five people are on Medicaid, which equates to approximately 600,000 people. It is distressing to realize how much these individuals are underserved when it comes to dental care. We call on the Mississippi Division of Medicaid and state lawmakers to acknowledge this grave issue and work towards its immediate resolution. It's time our communities receive the comprehensive healthcare they deserve.

We must expand Medicaid to fully cover adult dental care. Their lack of compassion and inaction places undue strain on our loved ones. Stand with us in our call for change. Let's restore smiles and health across Mississippi. Sign the petition to make our voices heard.