Hospital Funding Needed to Support COVID-19 Response
Posted on March 21, 2020
Michigan hospitals are mobilizing to respond to the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and the MHA has been working with state and federal partners to secure critical funding for these unexpected and already enormous costs.
In recognition of the severe financial impact the pandemic is having on Michigan hospitals, the MHA sent a formal request March 16 to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, the state House of Representatives and the state Senate urging them to provide immediate funding to hospitals. As a result of the MHA’s advocacy efforts, the Michigan Legislature passed its first COVID-19 relief bill March 17, which includes $50 million in funding for healthcare providers. This funding is dedicated to expanding the capacity and capabilities of healthcare providers to treat COVID-19 patients.
On the federal level, the MHA and the American Hospital Association are continuing to push the federal government to provide emergency funding for hospitals. Initial COVID-19 relief bills have been directed to state and federal response efforts and Americans who need economic support during the pandemic. To date, federal legislation has not directly assisted hospitals, which are the front line of defense in this pandemic crisis. Members may contact their federal lawmakers using this MHA action alert.
The MHA has held multiple meetings with Michigan’s congressional delegation to ensure they understand it is critical that hospitals get federal funding support immediately. The association thanks its state and federal elected officials for their collaboration thus far and looks forward to continuing those efforts.
Members with questions may contact Laura Appel or Adam Carlson at the MHA.
Tags: Laura Appel, Adam Carlson, Coronavirus, COVID-19
Posted in: Issues in Healthcare, Member News, Top Issues - Healthcare