New MHA Infographic Highlights Michigan’s Critical Access Hospitals
Posted on February 28, 2019
The MHA has released a new infographic highlighting Michigan’s 37 critical access hospitals (CAHs). The publication is part of the MHA’s public information campaign launching this spring, MiRuralCareMatters, which is designed to bring attention to the healthcare needs of small and rural communities throughout the state.
Michigan’s CAHs provide rural communities with vital access to healthcare services and play an important role in rural economies, often serving as local communities’ largest employers. However, rural hospitals often face unique financial challenges that can threaten the care and services they provide. These challenges include rising costs, demographic shifts, and attracting and retaining talented medical professionals.
The infographic, which will be used to support advocacy efforts on behalf of small and rural hospitals, provides an at-a-glance definition of CAHs, in addition to providing information on the impact of Michigan CAHs on patients, communities and the economy. In 2017 (the most recent data available), Michigan’s CAHs conducted 2.4 million outpatient visits, treated 331,000 people in emergency departments and admitted 22,000 people for care and treatment. In addition, CAHs were responsible for providing more than 10,000 direct jobs in Michigan, which generated $645 million in wages, salaries and benefits.
Members with questions about the advocacy efforts related to CAHs and small and rural hospitals should contact Adam Carlson at the MHA. Members that would like to request printed copies of the CAH infographic may email communicate@mha.org, including the quantity desired in the message.
Tags: small and rural, advocacy, critical access hospitals
Posted in: Issues in Healthcare, Top Issues - Healthcare