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The human costs of Medicaid cuts

Sep 17, 2026 · 6m

Summary

KPMG Chief Economist Diane Swank explains how Federal Reserve rate hikes and persistent inflation are driving up borrowing costs for mortgages and credit cards. The episode then shifts to the impact of federal Medicaid cuts, with USA Today journalist Jamie Frasier detailing how states are reducing home health services, causing longer waitlists for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Frasier advises families to join state waitlists early and connect with local resource groups to navigate the growing gap in care.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: Hard Lessons podcast from Morgan Stanley Sponsor: Wise international money transfers Intro: Fed hikes rates to fight inflation Interview: Impact of rate hikes on consumers Discussion: Inflation and long-term interest rates Interview wrap-up with Diane Swank Sponsor: Pega Blueprint AI workspace Sponsor: Pega agentic workforce orchestration Sponsor: Odu all-in-one business software Intro: Medicaid cuts and home health services Interview: Waitlists and aging population needs Discussion: Disability rights and funding gaps Advice: Navigating state waitlists and resources Outro: Marketplace Morning Report sign-off Sponsor: Marketplace podcast promotion
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