MHA Monday Report April 20, 2026

House Budget Proposal Advances; Other Hospital Bills See Action

Several healthcare bills, including mandatory nurse overtime, medical debt collections, prescribed pediatric extended care facilities and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services budget, saw action in the legislature during the week of April 13. The Michigan Senate voted in support …


MHA Unemployment Compensation Program Receives Fifth Consecutive Award for Outstanding Performance

The MHA Unemployment Compensation Program was recognized by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies April 17 for its continued commitment to using the State Information Data Exchange System to receive new claims and respond to …


Trinity Health Michigan Team Members Recognized with MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award

The MHA Keystone Center recognized Camryn Smith and Alicia Evans, medical assistants at Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, as its quarterly MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award recipients. The Speak-up! Award …


MDHHS Convenes Statewide RHTP Advisory Council

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) convened the first Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) Advisory Council meeting on April 13. Three rural hospital leaders from MHA-member hospitals serve on the council: Julie …


CMS Releases FY 2027 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a proposed rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service inpatient prospective payment system for fiscal year (FY) 2027. Highlights of the proposed rule include: …


LARA to Host Webinar on Proposed Psychiatric Hospital Licensing Rule Changes

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), through its Bureau of Community Health Systems, will host a webinar from 3 to 3:30 p.m., May 7, to review proposed updates to administrative rules …


MEJI Seeks Input on Guardianship Training Initiative

The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking feedback from members to help shape upcoming guardianship training. Members are encouraged to complete a brief survey to share input on what is needed, how it should …


Upcoming Opportunities to Prioritize Workplace Safety

As MHA CEO Brian Peters stated in his April CEO Report, it’s critical – especially during Workplace Violence Prevention Month – to prioritize the safety and well-being of healthcare workers. The MHA Keystone Center and …


Hospitals Help: Bronson Drives Change in Maternal and Infant Health

From prenatal care and labor and delivery to neonatal intensive care and postpartum follow-up, Bronson Healthcare plays a critical role in influencing health outcomes for mothers and babies across Southwest Michigan. In celebrating a historic …


Keckley Report

The AHA Annual Membership Meeting: Three Issues that Require Attention

“This weekend, the American Hospital Association will convene its 2026 Annual Membership Meeting in DC. Its purpose is to equip leaders to engage with lawmakers and government officials on issues of consequence to hospitals.

The agenda includes panels on age-friendly health systems, post-acute services, AI and more, interspersed with punditry from members of Congress and political commentators. It’s a federally-focused meeting at a time when the current administration has signaled distaste for healthcare and frustrations with hospitals. …

Key questions for hospitals: What does value mean in our organization? To whom is our value focus directed? Is quality in our organization an end in itself or a means to a financial result? Is participation in VBC projects helpful to our organization or is watchful waiting prudent?

The American Hospital Association, its state affiliates and its members face unprecedented challenges in 2026 and beyond. While attention is focused on short-term rules and regulations that protect hospital revenues (340B, site neutral payments, Medicaid cuts, et al), equal consideration is needed to the long-term role and scope of hospitals in emergent systems of health. That makes the AHA Board’s selection of retiring CEO Rick Pollock’s successor and the deliberation of the AHA Board about the long-term future for hospitals even more consequential.”

Paul Keckley, April 12, 2026


New to Know

News to Know

  • Applications are being accepted for the 2026-27 MHA Excellence in Governance Fellowship for hospital and health system trustees.
  • MHA Endorsed Business Partner SmarterDx is hosting the webinar “Making the Case for AI-Powered CDI” May 7 at 1 p.m. ET in partnership with ACDIS.

MHA in the News

Recent coverage of the Michigan Senate’s April 15 action on mandatory nurse overtime highlighted the MHA’s active engagement in ensuring hospital concerns were reflected in the final package. MHA Chief Nursing Officer Amy Brown was …

MHA Monday Report April 13, 2026

Michigan Health & Hospital Association Establishes MHA Center of Rural Excellence

The Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA) announced April 10 the establishment of the MHA Center of Rural Excellence, a 501(c)(6) organization created to formalize and strengthen the collective voice of rural hospitals through support tailored …


State Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks Addresses MHA Board

The MHA Board of Trustees welcomed Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) as a guest speaker at its April 8 board meeting at the MHA Capitol Advocacy Center in downtown Lansing. Sen. Brinks shared …


CMS Releases FY 2027 Proposed Rules Across Care Settings

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released several proposed rules for fiscal year (FY) 2027 that update Medicare payment systems and quality reporting requirements.


MDHHS Recommends Early Measles Vaccination in Select Counties and Extends RSV Immunization Season

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is recommending early measles vaccination for infants in select southeast Michigan counties and extending the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization season through April 30, in …


Keystone Quality and Safety Dashboard Provides At-a-Glance Insights

The MHA Keystone Center recently rolled out its Quality and Safety Dashboard, a resource that helps Michigan hospitals monitor performance, identify improvement opportunities and reduce patient harm. The dashboard provides an at-a-glance view of performance …


MHA Submits Comments on Proposed Behavioral Health Medicaid Policy

The MHA recently submitted comments to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services on proposed policy 2553-BH, which addresses reimbursement for specialty behavioral health services based on service location. While the policy largely reflects …


Council Workgroups Advance Care Delivery Strategies

The MHA Council on Health Access and Community Impact, established in June 2024, brings together voices from across the MHA membership to advance a shared commitment to improving healthcare and health outcomes. Over the past …


MDHHS Seeks Applications for Loan Repayment Program to Expand Substance Use Disorder Treatment

The MDHHS is accepting applications through April 30 for the Michigan Opioid Treatment Access Loan Repayment Program, which supports providers who offer or expand access to opioid addiction …


YesRx Donation Drive Expands Access to Cancer Medications

The MHA continues to support the YesRx statewide cancer medication donation drive, taking place April 20-24, to help expand access to treatment and reduce medication waste across Michigan. YesRx is a statewide cancer drug repository …


Hospitals Help: Hillsdale Works to Improve Access for Rural Residents

Rural hospitals are the heart of their communities, providing care close to home in addition to jobs, stability and reassurance that help is nearby in life’s most pivotal moments. Despite their essential role, rural providers …


Keckley Report

In OMB’s FY 2027 Proposed Budget, Healthcare is the Big Loser

“In 1970 before there was ESPN Sports Center, there was ABC’s “Wide World of Sports” and its iconic montage opening featuring a disastrous ski jump attempt by Yugoslavia’s Vinko Bogataj and Jim Kay’s voice-over “the thrill of victory and agony of defeat.” It’s an apt framework for consideration of current affairs in the U.S. today and an appropriate juxtaposition for consideration the winners and losers in the White House Office of Management and Budget FY2027 released Friday. …

In its current form, this budget is unlikely to be enacted October 1, 2026: it’s best viewed as a signal from the White House about priorities it deems most important to the MAGA faithful in Congress, 28 state legislatures and 26 Governors’ offices controlled by Republicans. Though its explosive growth in of War Department funding to $1.5 trillion is eye-popping, cuts to healthcare are equally notable. Both are calculated bets as the mid-term election draws near (six months) and clearly OMB is betting healthcare cuts will be acceptable to its base. …

This budget proposal clearly illustrates why state legislators and Governors will play a bigger role in its future at home and abroad. And it means consumer (voter) awareness and understanding on key issues will be key to the system’s future, lest it is remembered for the agony of its defeat than the thrill of its victory.”

Paul Keckley, April 6, 2026


New to KnowNews to Know

The MHA will host a Health Access and Community Impact Office Hours session April 29 from noon to 12:45 p.m. ET, featuring Michigan 211.


MHA in the News

Elizabeth Kutter, vice president and deputy general counsel, MHA, joined Paul W. Smith for a WJR Spotlight interview April 9 about the value the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program brings to Michigan communities. The conversation …

MHA Monday Report April 6, 2026

MHA EventsHospital HR Professionals Gather at MHA Human Resources Conference

The MHA welcomed human resources leaders from across the state for the 2026 MHA Human Resources Conference March 24 in Lansing. Attendees gathered for a day of learning, networking and discussions focused on the workforce …


CMS Issues Guidance on Updated Federal Dietary Guidelines

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a Quality & Safety Special Alert Memo reminding critical access hospital providers of their responsibilities for patient food and nutrition services under existing …


MHA Annual Membership Meeting Strengthens Statewide Collaboration

The MHA Annual Membership Meeting will be held June 24-26 on Mackinac Island. It will include education sessions that deliver tactics and perspectives to shape the future, recognition of prestigious individuals leading transformation and numerous …


Excellence in Governance Fellowship Offers Meaningful Dialogue Among Trustees and Experts

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026-27 cohort of the MHA Excellence in Governance Fellowship, a rigorous and comprehensive program delivering tools and knowledge in effective governance. Hospital and health system governing board members …


Hospitals Help: Kalkaska Memorial Walks Beside Patients at Discharge

Patients often feel most vulnerable during the transition from hospital to home – especially if questions linger, follow-up care is extensive or there’s any risk of complications. Knowing this, hospitals are finding ways to ensure …


MHA Rounds image of Brian PetersMHA CEO Report — Violence Is Not Part of the Job

Healthcare workers accept extraordinary responsibility in their role as caregivers for their community, but fearing for their own safety is never something they should have to accept as part of the job. …


March Recap

March was marked by a strong focus on National Nutrition Month, highlighting how hospitals are advancing Food as Medicine efforts across Michigan. The following articles recap key conversations and initiatives supporting improved health outcomes through nutrition.

Food as Medicine: How Trinity Health Is Advancing Health Through Nutrition

Food is Medicine. Health by Food. ProduceRx. The integration of healthy food into healthcare is gaining attention under many names, but the message remains the same: access to healthy foods as a part of care. …


Health Access & Community Impact Council Focuses on Food as Medicine

The MHA Health Access & Community Impact Council convened virtually March 5 to discuss strategies to improve health outcomes through stronger integration of social and clinical care. In recognition of National Nutrition Month, members also explored …


Hospitals Expand Food Access Through Community Benefit Collaboratives

As many observe National Nutrition Month, hospitals across the state are implementing programs to address chronic disease through nutrition education and expanded food access. This work is being done through the MHA Community Benefit Collaboratives, which support efforts to improve Michiganders’ health outcomes in …


Keckley Report

Reality Check: the New Healthcare Advisory Committee

“Last week, Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert Kennedy and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Director Mehmet Oz announced appointments to the new Healthcare Advisory Committee (HAC).

Its 18 members were selected from 400 nominees and will serve two-year terms. The group includes 4 health system executives, 5 physician leaders, 4 policy analysts, 3 ‘others’ (including motivational speaker Tony Robbins) and 2 Ex Officio (Non‑Voting) Members (Kimberly Brandt, JD — CMS Deputy Administrator & COO Stephanie Carlton, CMS Chief of Staff). …

The U.S. health system is in chaos. Its long-term destination is unknown. It’s near-term is mired in political brinksmanship and discontent about its costs and affordability. It is unhealthy. Majorities in both parties, and independent voters think the system is broken but few know what a viable alternative might be. Lost but making record time!!!”

Paul Keckley, March 29, 2026


New to KnowNews to Know

  • MHA Endorsed Business Partner i2G Systems is hosting the webinar Pathway to Prevention April 22 from 11 a.m. to noon ET.
  • The American Hospital Association (AHA) is accepting applications for the 2027 AHA Foster G. McGaw Prize.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage during the week of March 30 following Executive Vice President of Government Relations and Public Policy Laura Appel’s participation in two panels focused on key healthcare challenges and opportunities. WZMQ …

MHA Monday Report March 30, 2026

Governor Whitmer Signs Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Bill

Gov. Whitmer signed House Bill 5455, now Public Act 6 of 2026, into law March 26. This came ahead of the deadline for the state to continue participation in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact without …


Clinical Laboratory Fee Schedule Data Reporting Period Opens May 1

The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, signed into law Feb. 3, includes updates to the Medicare Clinical Laboratory Fee Schedule under the Protecting Access to Medicare Act. These updates include a data …


MDHHS Finalizes Medicaid Policy Updates to Mental Health Framework

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently finalized Medicaid policy updates to the Michigan Mental Health Framework. It reflects several changes from the proposed version related to assessment use, timing and provider eligibility. …


Continuum of Care Consortium Seeks Member Participation

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Bureau of Survey and Certification is organizing a Continuum of Care Consortium. This group is designed to bring together hospital and long-term care providers …


Stryker Issues Cyber Incident Response Certification Letter

Following a recent cyberattack at Stryker Corporation, the company issued a Stryker Cyber Incident Response Certification Letter on March 16 to update its customers on the ongoing situation. The letter includes information on product safety, communication with Stryker sales …


Hospitals Help: McLaren Launches AI Tool to Identify Heart Disease Risk Sooner

Michigan hospitals are finding innovative ways to improve patient outcomes and remove barriers to timely care. One example of this comes from McLaren Health Care and its McLaren Heart & Vascular Institute, who recently launched …


Keckley Report

It’s March Madness for Hospitals

“Hospitals represent 31% of total health spending in the U.S. They directly employ 52% of the nation’s 1.1 million physicians and 44% of the 18 million in the healthcare workforce. Many operate ‘related’ businesses including insurance companies, nursing home and long-term care services, fitness facilities and some are investors in private equity funds and joint ventures pursuing innovations in care delivery and more. …

For hospitals, this is March Madness! Strategies to manage demand, reduce costs and leverage favorable operating margins (enjoyed by some) need refreshing because the environment has fundamentally changed. Governing boards and C suites in hospitals face some tough questions about how, and how fast their environment will change. The Big C’s (Costs, Corporatization, Competition, Compliance, Capital, Coverage) are a useful place to start…

These are not comprehensive but they’re directionally accurate: the future for hospitals is not a repeat of the past. The market has fundamentally changed.

The blame and shame game played by the industry’s major sectors—hospitals, insurers, drug companies—has not made life better for the citizens it serves. The public’s asking for something better, and elected officials are on their side.

March Madness is reality for hospitals. It requires fresh thinking and uncomfortable adjustments. It’s not optional.”

Paul Keckley, March 22, 2026


New to KnowNews to Know

The MHA membership will convene in person for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 24–26. The annual meeting will feature an outstanding lineup of experts discussing key topics, including public perception and affordability. Members are encouraged to register by …


MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage during the week of March 23 on key issues affecting access to care and the healthcare workforce. MLive, Gongwer and the Michigan Advance reported on the bipartisan agreement to extend …

MHA Monday Report March 23, 2026

Mandatory Overtime, Assisted Outpatient Treatment Legislation Advances

Several key healthcare bills, including mandatory nurse overtime, assisted outpatient treatment, Certificate of Need and site-neutral payment policies, saw action in the legislature during the week of March 16. The Senate Regulatory Affairs …


Michigan Legislature Announces Commitment to Pass the IMLC Before March 28 Deadline

Following negotiations finalized March 19, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) announced plans to pass legislation authorizing Michigan’s continued participation in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC). The MHA thanks state lawmakers for their commitment …


MHA Shares Latest Medicare and Medicaid Enrollment Analysis

The MHA recently updated its analysis of Medicaid and Medicare enrollment based on February 2026 data. The analysis includes program enrollment as a percentage of each county’s total population and the split between fee-for-service and …


The MHA Annual Membership Meeting Offers Learning and Networking

The MHA membership will convene in person for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 24-26 on Mackinac Island. The event provides an opportunity to learn, network and celebrate …


Federal Court Pauses Vaccine Policy Changes

A U.S. District Court judge issued a ruling March 16 in American Academy of Pediatrics v. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. that places a hold on several changes to federal vaccine policy made over the past …


Health Access & Community Impact Office Hours Highlight 211 Data

The MHA will host the next Health Access & Community Impact Office Hours session on April 29 from noon to 12:45 p.m., featuring Michigan 211. The session, Understanding Regional Needs: A Data Driven Look at Michigan’s …


Applications Open for Governance Fellowship, Current Class Convenes

The MHA is now accepting applications for the Excellence in Governance Fellowship which will be held from October 2026 through June 2027. The comprehensive program is designed to support hospital and health system trustees in strengthening governance …


The State of Healthcare Leadership: Risks, Reality and Readiness

MHA Endorsed Business Partner AMN Healthcare and B.E. Smith recently released the Healthcare Leadership Trends for 2026 Report, based on a national survey of more than 700 healthcare executives across hospitals and health systems. The report …


Hospitals Help Michigan Students Pursue Healthcare Careers

Healthcare remains the state’s largest employer of direct, private-sector jobs. With this in mind, hospitals are finding innovative ways to give Michigan students the opportunity to gain real-world exposure to clinical and non-clinical healthcare roles. …


Keckley Report

Health Literacy: Out of Sight, Out of Mind in the Healthcare Industry

“Of industries monitored in the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ industry classifications (NAICS), healthcare is unique: its business model is based on business to business (B2B) transactions between suppliers (drugs, devices, technology, hospitals, ancillary facilities), intermediaries (GPOs, PBMs, insurers, brokers) and retail distributors (physicians, pharmacists, therapists, et al) in which end-users (consumers) have limited influence and unpredictable financial responsibility. The acceptance of low health literacy is institutionalized in state and federal regulatory oversight, labor rules and scope of practice determinations and funding by private investors, public appropriations, employer contributions and out-of-pocket payments by consumers. Its acceptance is inconsistent with aims to make it more accessible, affordable and effective. …

For too long, health literacy has been relegated to discussions among public health officials. Its neglect is harmful to every organization in healthcare and to its long-term sustainability. Boards should weigh in, and policymakers should act. Health literacy can ill-afford being out of sight, out-of mind in the U.S. health system and in the society we serve.”

Paul Keckley, March 15, 2026

MHA Monday Report March 16, 2026

Medical Debt Legislation Clears Senate, MHA-Supported Bills Advance in the House

Legislation addressing medical debt collection processes and hospital financial assistance policies passed the Michigan Senate, while the House of Representatives moved MHA-supported bills during the week of March 9.  The Senate voted in support of Senate Bills 449, 450 and 451 as well as …


Healthcare Leadership Award Nominations Due March 27

The MHA is now accepting nominations for the annual Healthcare Leadership Award, which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership within their healthcare organization and community. Trustees, executives, physicians, nurses and other outstanding leaders are eligible for consideration. …


DEA Final Rule Takes Effect for EMS Controlled Substances

A new Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) final rule took effect March 9, codifying regulations enacted in 2017 within the Controlled Substances Act related to the handling of controlled substances by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) …


Health Access & Community Impact Council Focuses on Food as Medicine

The MHA Health Access & Community Impact Council convened virtually March 5 to discuss strategies to improve health outcomes through stronger integration of social and clinical care. In recognition of National Nutrition Month, members also explored …


Applications Open for 2027 AHA Foster G. McGaw Prize

The American Hospital Association (AHA) is accepting applications for the annual 2027 AHA Foster G. McGaw Prize now through May 5, 2026. The prize celebrates hospitals and health systems that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to …


Hospitals Help: Bronson Healthcare Guides Patients Through Billing, Benefits and Financial Support

Navigating healthcare billing and out-of-pocket costs can be overwhelming. In order to let patients focus on healing, many hospitals are expanding the role of financial counselors, social workers and patient navigators. For example, financial counselors …


Keckley Report

Healthcare Workforce Modernization Needed

“Last week, the war in Iran intensified and Kristi Noem’s tenure as DHS Secretary came to an unceremonious close. Perhaps lost in the noise was the February jobs report issued Friday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. It showed a surprising decline in job growth prompting speculation the economy might have taken a downward turn. …

Healthcare is capital intense: it needs appropriations from government and in-flows from employers and individual taxpayers to pay its bills. Most of that pays for its labor costs. Today, most Board agenda include updates on labor relations, human resource management issues and workforce adequacy—it’s standard fare. And all weigh options to outsource and devour progress reports from HR management on AI-enabled investments anticipated to reduce labor costs. …

If the overall economy is dependent on healthcare to produce an appropriate share of job growth while reducing overall costs, modernizing its workforce is key. It must include unpaid caregivers, licensed and unlicensed providers and technology-enabled solution providers—not just traditional licensed professional groups and their academic partners. That’s not going to happen in the current political environment where each sector’s primary focus is protecting reimbursement and guarding against scope of practice threats.

The health system needs transformation. Workforce modernization is where to start.”

Paul Keckley, March 8, 2026


New to KnowNews to Know

  • The MHA membership will convene in person for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 24–26.
  • MHA Endorsed Business Partner CyberForce|Q is hosting the Navigating AI’s Impact on Cyber Hygiene webinar March 25 from noon-1 p.m. ET.

MHA in the News

The MHA partnered with Crain’s Content Studio to facilitate a healthcare affordability discussion, which was highlighted in its Detroit and Grand Rapids publications. Healthcare and business leaders examined the complex factors driving healthcare costs and …

MHA Monday Report March 9, 2026

Healthcare Bills Advance in Michigan Legislature

Several healthcare-related bills advanced in the Michigan Legislature during the week of March 2, including proposals addressing medical debt, liability protections, organ donation incentives and workforce shortages. The Senate Finance Committee advanced Senate Bills …


Action Alert: Legislature Begins Budget Process

House and Senate Appropriations subcommittees have begun work on the fiscal year 2027 state budget, which begins Oct. 1. The MHA has created a new action alert encouraging individuals to contact lawmakers and emphasize the importance of …


2026 MHA Annual Membership Meeting Registration Now Open

The MHA membership will convene in person for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 24–26 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The annual meeting will feature an outstanding lineup of experts discussing key topics, …


MHA Opposes Federal Student Loan Proposal Affecting Healthcare Workforce

The MHA recently submitted a comment letter opposing the U.S. Department of Education’s proposed rule that would change how certain graduate health programs qualify for federal student loan programs under H.R. 1. The proposal would …


Register by March 13 to Attend MHA HR Conference

The deadline to register for the 2026 MHA Human Resources Conference is March 11. The conference is scheduled for March 24 at the Crowne Plaza Lansing and will bring together human resources leaders navigating rapid …


Hospitals Expand Food Access Through Community Benefit Collaboratives

As many observe National Nutrition Month, hospitals across the state are implementing programs to address chronic disease through nutrition education and expanded food access. This work is being done through the MHA Community Benefit Collaboratives, which support efforts to improve Michiganders’ health outcomes in …


MDHHS Seeks Proposals for Primary Substance Abuse Prevention Programs for Youth  

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) released a grant funding opportunity March 4 to provide support to organizations implementing primary substance use prevention programs for children and youth. The goal of this program is to support organizations to deliver …


Forum to Address Transportation Barriers to Healthcare Access

Transportation Riders United (TRU) will host MI Public Health in Motion: Health and Transit Forum March 19 from noon to 2 p.m. ET. TRU is a Michigan-based transit advocacy organization whose work the MHA has …


MC3 Launches Free Webinar Series on Supporting Youth in Crisis

Michigan Clinical Consultation & Care (MC3) is launching a free virtual education series beginning March 10 to help healthcare professionals better support children and adolescents experiencing behavioral health crises. The Practical Strategies to Support …


Hospitals Help: Mackinac Straits Retail Pharmacy Serves as a Lifeline in Northern Michigan

Mackinac Straits Health System opened its retail pharmacy in St. Ignace following valuable feedback from the community. Previously, the community lacked access to pharmacy services on weekends and holidays. This created additional barriers to care, …


MHA Rounds graphic of Brian PetersMHA CEO Report — Sustaining Hospital Funding is Key to Meaningful Reform

Michiganders heard a clear message from our state and federal leaders last week: healthcare is too expensive and the system is flawed. We agree. Michigan hospitals are deeply invested in providing timely and accessible care, …


Keckley Report

The Other F Bomb in Healthcare: FRAUD (especially Medicaid)

“40 minutes into the 108-minute State of the Union address Tuesday night, the President laid out his healthcare policy priorities for 2026 and after:

  • Increased focus on price transparency (building on 2021 and 2022 Executive Orders that targeted hospitals and insurers).
  • Increased use of Most Favored Nation pricing agreements to lower prescription drug costs.
  • Increased adoption of Health Savings Accounts by individuals who lost premium tax credits (aka ‘ill-conceived elements of “Obamacare).

These are the backbone of the President’s “Great Healthcare Plan” (January 15, 2026) that is premised on his view that the healthcare system is fundamentally flawed because consumer interests are not served. His plan reckons consolidation and corporatization in the $5.3 trillion U.S. healthcare enterprise as business strategies to profit operators (hospitals, medical practitioners, insurers, long-term care providers), suppliers (drugs, supplies, technologies, facilities), regulators and advisors at the expense of consumers. It posits that increased competition, less regulation, more transparency and a more direct role for consumers are necessary changes. …

FRAUD is the new F bomb in healthcare. It rallies industry critics to a common purpose. Medicaid is only the start.”

Paul Keckley, March 1, 2026


MHA in the News

KFF Health News published a story March 4 detailing concerns from hospital leaders and lawmakers across the country about how states plan to spend new federal rural health funding. The $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program …

MHA Monday Report March 2, 2026

Governor Whitmer Delivers Final State of the State Address

Gov. Whitmer delivered her final State of the State address Feb. 25 before a joint session of the Michigan House of Representatives and Senate, outlining priorities for the remainder of her term, including healthcare affordability. …


MHA EventsUpcoming Events Focus on Workplace Violence

The MHA is hosting two upcoming events that provide resources and insights on workplace violence in healthcare. The MHA Keystone Center and MHA Endorsed Business Partner Tarian will host the webinar, The Four Myths of Workplace Violence …


Hospitals Help: Grant Drives Maternal Safety Innovation at MyMichigan Health

Simulation training helps care teams prepare for rare, high-risk events by allowing them to practice clinical decision-making and collaboration in a safe environment. Through an equipment grant distributed by the MHA Keystone Center with funding …


The MHA February Recap 

MHA Chief Medical Officer Expresses Support for AAP Immunization Schedule

The following statement can be attributed to Gary Roth, DO, MBA, FACOS, FCCM, FACS, chief medical officer of the MHA.  The MHA supports the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) evidence-based 2026 immunization schedule and the …


Former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow Addresses MHA Board

The MHA Board of Trustees’ Feb. 4 meeting featured a discussion with former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, who is now a senior policy advisor with DC-based Liberty Partners Group, a bipartisan strategic consulting firm. Stabenow …


MHA Service Corporation Welcomes New Board Member and Explores Innovations

The MHA Service Corporation (MHASC) board met Feb. 4 to advance and promote current and future business services of the MHASC and its Endorsed Business Partner (EBP) Program. The board also welcomed incoming board member …


MHA Keystone Board Reviews Strategic Priorities

The MHA Keystone Center Board of Directors met Feb. 4 to review strategic priorities and key initiatives aligned with the 2025-26 MHA Strategic Action Plan. The meeting opened with a discussion focused on workplace violence …


Building Excellence Without Barriers

Every February, Black History Month invites us to pause and reflect on the pioneers who have redefined what’s possible for communities across the country — often in systems that were not designed with them in mind. …


Keckley Report

Mission Health, Asheville: Up Close and Personal

“On December 10, I had quadruple bypass surgery at Mission Hospital (MH), the HCA Healthcare facility in Asheville NC. It was necessary due to significant blockage (95%) and counsel from my long-time primary care physician at Vanderbilt, Ben Womack. …

This experience has been enlightening. I kept copious notes and continue to add to that file. My journey spans 3 months, 2 ED visits, a 5-day inpatient stay, an outpatient post-op procedure to clear fluid build-up in my lungs, a follow-up visit with Dr. Russell and the first two weeks of the rehab regimen. Observations to date: …”

Paul Keckley, Feb. 22, 2026


MHA in the News

MHA Executive Vice President Laura Appel joined WJR’s Ryan Ermanni live broadcast Feb. 25 for the station’s annual coverage of the state’s legislative and policy priorities in alignment with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s State of the …

MHA Monday Report Feb. 23, 2026

Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Awaits Further Consideration, Important Healthcare Bills Advance

The House and Senate advanced key healthcare bills through the committee process during the week of Feb. 16 and legislation to restore Michigan to the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact awaits further consideration by the Michigan Legislature. Senate Bill …


MHA Keystone Board Reviews Strategic Priorities

The MHA Keystone Center Board of Directors met Feb. 4 to review strategic priorities and key initiatives aligned with the 2025-26 MHA Strategic Action Plan. The meeting opened with a discussion focused on workplace violence …


MHA Shares Talking Points on Mental Health Framework

The MHA recently finalized talking points on Michigan’s Mental Health Framework to support hospital engagement with policymakers and legislators. The release follows the association’s formal comment letter outlining hospital concerns with the proposed framework, particularly …


MHA Events2026 MHA HR Conference to Feature Reputation Management Session

Human resources (HR) leaders do more than oversee policies. They guide pivotal moments — difficult conversations, high-pressure decisions and daily interactions that shape trust, culture and credibility across an organization. At the 2026 MHA HR Conference …


MDHHS Shares 2026 MICH Requirements Updates

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently released updated information for calendar year 2026 regarding coverage regions and participating plans for Mi Coordinated Health (MICH). MICH is the state’s Highly Integrated Dual …


Registration Open for MDHHS Laboratory Leadership Summit

Registration is open for the Laboratory Leadership Summit, hosted March 26 in Lansing by the MDHHS Bureau of Laboratories. MHA members are encouraged to register and attend …


Hospitals Help: Lake Huron Medical Center Clinic Provides Free, Lifesaving Care

Lake Huron Medical Center, Port Huron, partners with the People’s Clinic for Better Health, which has been providing life-saving healthcare at no cost to the uninsured and underinsured in St. Clair County for more than …


From the MHA Board Chair

Building Excellence Without Barriers

Every February, Black History Month invites us to pause and reflect on the pioneers who have redefined what’s possible for communities across the country — often in systems that were not designed with them in mind. …


The Keckley Report

Government Reports on Healthcare require a Closer Look

“Last week, the Federal Government released agency reports that paint a perplexing picture for the health industry entering 2026:

Tuesday, The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the EMPLOYMENT COST INDEX SUMMARY noting “Compensation costs for civilian workers increased 0.7%, seasonally adjusted, for the 3-month period ending in December 2025 and 3.4% for the 12-month period ending December, 2025.” Closer look: it was +3.6% for hospitals and +3.2% for nursing homes. …

In every hospital, medical group nursing home and home care organization, pressure to attract and keep a viable workforce is mission critical. In some, the Human Resource function is effectively aligned with regulatory, clinical and technology changes, in some, compensation plans from executive to support are strategically designed to optimize short and long-term performance and ROI. In some, the Board Compensation committee is well-prepared to adjust policies as talent requirements change. In some, leaders and frontline teams show mutual respect and sincere appreciation. But many fall short.

These reports are public record. But their headline stats don’t tell a complete story. Every healthcare organization is obligated to do the rest.”

Paul Keckley, Feb. 15, 2025


New to KnowNews to Know

Join MHA Endorsed Business Partner SmarterDx for the webinar From Policy to Your Playbook: Turning Rural Health Transformation Programs into Actionable Steps, Feb. 26 from 1 – 2 p.m. ET.


MHA in the News

MHA CEO Brian Peters bylined an op-ed Feb. 16 in The Detroit News, highlighting Michigan hospitals’ understanding of the financial strain that rising healthcare costs are creating and reinforcing their commitment to being part of …

MHA Monday Report Feb. 16, 2026

State Legislative Weekly Recap: Executive Budget Recommendations, Nurse Mandatory Overtime Testimony

The House and Senate Appropriations committees held a joint hearing for Gov. Whitmer’s executive budget recommendation for fiscal year 2027, and the Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee heard testimony on nurse mandatory overtime legislation during the …


MHA Service Corporation Welcomes New Board Member and Explores Innovations

The MHA Service Corporation (MHASC) board met Feb. 4 to advance and promote current and future business services of the MHASC and its Endorsed Business Partner program. The board also welcomed incoming board member


Hospitals Help: Trinity Health Initiative Expands Access to Lifesaving Narcan Vending Machines

In response to the opioid epidemic, four Trinity Health hospitals — Livonia, Oakland, Livingston and Ann Arbor — launched a regional initiative to expand access to Narcan (naloxone), a lifesaving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. …


Stay Engaged with MHA Education and Events

Having knowledgeable and well-skilled teams is vital to deliver exceptional care and the MHA offers a robust lineup of meetings, webinars and collaborative opportunities to support hospital leaders and clinicians throughout the year. From major …


The Keckley Report

States should Play a Bigger Role in Healthcare Transformation

“2026 will be a transition year for the U.S. economy: the impact of the Fed’s monetary policies and Trump tariffs will be widely debated as state and Congressional primary campaigns begin next month. If affordability is the top concern to voters as pollsters predict, every candidate will be forced to express their views on solutions. While political rhetoric lends to opaque solutions and evasive answers to direct questions, voters are tired of BS. They associate it with both major parties and their luminary incumbents, and want straight talk. 2026 will be a transition year for the economy because voters will be paying closer attention to the economy and the prices they pay for essentials including healthcare.

And 2026 is a transition year for the healthcare economy: Major changes in regulatory policies impacting healthcare will originate in states either in response to federal directives or fiscal pressures. Federal policies will be directional but state responses and implementation will be more important. …

Voters think the health system is wasteful and self-serving. A Bipartisan majority in Congress share the view. The majority of voters believe it is more closely associated with Big Business than Community Health and Wellbeing. Distinctions between Big Not for Profits and Investor Ownership are blurry and industry opposition to price transparency, site neutral payments and cost-controls are seen as evidence of self-protection. So, if positioned appropriately, greater systemic reform of the health system would be welcomed. Leadership by states is, after all, a core tenet of federalism.”

Paul Keckley, Feb. 8, 2026


New to KnowNews to Know

  • The deadline to submit a request for proposals to the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity Workforce Development for the State Apprenticeship Expansion 2026 Grant Program is Feb. 18.
  • The MHA Keystone Center and MHA Endorsed Business Partner Tarian will host the webinar, The Four Myths of Workplace Violence and the Aggression Cycle You Can’t Afford to Ignore 11 a.m. – noon ET on March 4.
  • MHA offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 16 in observance of Presidents’ Day.