Thousands of Puerto Ricans are living with complex chronic conditions like autoimmune and neuromuscular disorders, which require specialized medical care, expensive medications, and ongoing therapy. For many, Medicaid is a crucial lifeline to access care and maintain independence.

Congress is considering proposed federal cuts to Medicaid funding that would deeply impact the disability community even though President Trump has said on numerous occasions he doesn’t want them touching Medicaid. Puerto Rico already faces significant healthcare disparities, including a shortage of specialists and limited access to advanced treatments. Reducing Medicaid support would mean fewer therapy sessions, limited access to life-sustaining medications, and delayed diagnoses — leading to a diminished quality of life.

Children and adults with muscular dystrophy, in particular, depend on Medicaid for physical and occupational therapy, as well as in-home care, that helps maintain mobility and independence. Without this support, families will be forced to make impossible choices between essential medical care and other basic needs.

Congress must recognize the critical importance of Medicaid for Puerto Rico’s most vulnerable populations. Cutting Medicaid is not just a budgetary decision — it’s a life-altering consequence for those with muscular dystrophy and autoimmune diseases. Our leaders must protect Medicaid funding and ensure that all Puerto Ricans have access to the care they need and deserve.

Joel Berrocal serves as the Executive Director of The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC.) The NPRCC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created to support the development of entrepreneurship, innovation, and business expansion throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. Mainland by providing a comprehensive resource for incubating business ideas, leveraging new markets, taking advantage of new opportunities, and advocating for policies that help our communities grow.