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The Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association is urging the U.S. House to reject a Senate-approved budget reconciliation plan, warning that its Medicaid funding cuts could threaten hospitals, restrict access to care and damage Virginia’s economy.
The association estimates the Senate proposal would cost Virginia hospitals more than $2 billion annually in funding used to maintain operations, employ workers across the commonwealth and care for patients.
It warns that the financial pressure could force several hospitals to close, including facilities serving rural Virginia. Other hospitals could be pushed to eliminate services or reduce staffing, limiting patients’ access to care.
The association argues that the House reconciliation bill offers a better way to pursue the president’s tax-cutting goals while preserving the health care system and its safety net.
Citing concerns about public health, economic stability and residents’ well-being, the organization is calling on House members to reject the Senate plan and insist on their chamber’s version of the package.