Claire Smith, now 5 years old, was born with a rare genetic syndrome whose symptoms include multiple, severe physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities. Claire’s family has private health insurance, but because of its bureaucratic barriers, her parents have had to struggle to obtain the care Claire needs. About a year ago, Claire’s parents learned that Claire could qualify for D.C. Medicaid’s “Katie Beckett” program. This program enables families like the Smiths, whose child with disabilities would be eligible for Medicaid-funded institutional care, to have their child receive the services and supports he or she needs to remain at home. With Medicaid, Claire’s parents no longer face red-tape when Claire needs care, and because Medicaid pays providers promptly, they no longer receive threatening letters about collections. Medicaid covers the out-of-pocket costs for Claire’s care, as well as key services denied by their private policy, including Claire’s wheelchair and the tests that were needed to diagnose her illness. Medicaid also covers occasional respite care, which provides vital support to Claire’s parents and her family as a whole.