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Coordinating lifesaving care for Niah across states

Nearly half of all babies born in Illinois are covered by Medicaid.

“Niah,” of Naperville, is among them.

Born in 2021, Niah was diagnosed with a complex heart condition, including congenital abnormalities and cardiac arrhythmia. Soon after her first birthday, Niah’s doctors determined that she needed lifesaving heart surgery—quickly.

The challenge? Niah’s condition was so unique that only a handful of specialists in the U.S. could treat it. Surgeons at Boston Children’s Hospital were ready to take the case.

Niah’s care team and Medicaid health plan worked together to get her swiftly approved for the procedure, arranging an air ambulance to transport Niah. The health plan also coordinated travel and lodging for Niah’s parents to be with her. Their care coordinator
called every day to check in and ensure their needs were met.

Niah’s surgery was a success. Today, she is a curious, energetic toddler who sees renowned specialists back home in Illinois for ongoing care.

Paid for by the Illinois Association of Medicaid Health Plans