STAT+: Why an influential GOP health policy expert still backs the Medicaid cuts — and which policy target is next

Brian Blase say backlash to cuts overlooks key arguments in favor of them Adobe Daniel covers the intersection of the health industry and the federal government. He reports on corporate influence in government, the health consequences of federal policies, and the politics of health care. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at danielp.100. WASHINGTON — Brian Blase, president of Paragon Health Institute, has become a trusted adviser to Republicans in Congress, who passed sweeping changes to federal funding for health care last year. The Medicaid program is expected to pay out some $1 trillion less than projected over the coming decade, thanks to policies Blase supported. The changes are causing health providers to scramble and rethink how they offer care. Paragon Health Institute President Brian BlaseParagon Health Institute The cuts to the Medicaid program through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act were used to offset the cost of tax cuts — a change that’s expected to lead to 7 million people losing Medicaid coverage, according to preliminary estimates from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Daniel covers the intersection of the health industry and the federal government. He reports on corporate influence in government, the health consequences of federal policies, and the politics of health care. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at danielp.100.