The public is invited to attend A Community Conversation on Medicaid, an important and timely discussion focused on Medicaid and its impact on the community. The event will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the board room next to the Triton Cafe at Iowa Central Community College.

Moderated by Niki Conrad, the forum will bring together a diverse panel of healthcare professionals and advocates to share their insights, experiences and challenges related to Medicaid in Iowa. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from leaders who serve on the front lines of healthcare, long-term care, maternal and behavioral health and outreach services.

Featured panelists include:

• Sara Carspecken, maternal health director, Webster County Public Health

• Kari Jones, chief nursing officer, UnityPoint Health

• Kalleen Engels, chief operations and financial officer, Friendship Haven

• Jeanette Moss, substance abuse counselor, UnityPoint Berryhill Center

• Beth Plautz, president, Golden Day Adult Day

• Renae Kruckenberg, CEO, Community Health Center of Fort Dodge

The evening will explore how Medicaid policies are shaping access to care, reimbursement rates, care coordination and the sustainability of essential services in the region. Following the panel discussion, there will be time for a moderated Q&A with the audience.

The event is free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be provided.