The federal health care landscape is shifting, and proposed cuts to Medicaid – known in our state as Apple Health – could drastically alter how our hospitals provide care. As these potential changes move forward, hospitals across Washington are bracing for impacts on patient access, financial stability and overall health care delivery.
Much is at stake, and WSHA is coordinating with partners and laying the groundwork to push back against Medicaid cuts. Key actions include meetings with congressional representatives, a media campaign targeting lawmakers and a coordinated push to raise public awareness. With congressional negotiations in full swing, these initiatives will be critical to help lawmakers understand just how important Medicaid is to the hospitals in their districts.
Medicaid is often seen as an urban program, but in Washington, rural communities have some of the highest rates of enrollment. Cuts to Medicaid would disproportionately affect rural hospitals, many of which already operate on razor-thin margins. If reimbursements fall, these hospitals could face service reductions, staffing shortages or even closures.
New work requirements, funding caps and eligibility reductions also threaten to shrink Medicaid’s reach, making it harder for low-income individuals and families to access health care.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be urging our hospitals to engage with their communities and lawmakers about why this funding matters. At the same time, we’ll be working with health care workers, collaborating with advocates and leveraging media efforts to safeguard Medicaid
Sincerely,
Jacqueline Barton True
Vice President, Advocacy and Rural Health
Jacquelineb@wsha.org
