Category: Monday Report

MHA Monday Report May 11, 2026

Member News, Monday Report

 

Medical Residents Highlight Workforce Needs During 2026 GME Capitol Day

The MHA Graduate Medical Education (GME) Capitol Day welcomed nearly 30 physician residents from member hospitals to the MHA Capitol Advocacy Center offices May 6 for a day of meetings with members of the Michigan …

Safe Table to Focus on Medication Safety in Rural Hospitals

The MHA Keystone Center Patient Safety Organization will host an in-person Safe Table on May 28 at Mackinac Straits Hospital in St. Ignace. The session will focus on strategies to prevent medication errors in …

CDC Restores Immunization Schedules After Federal Court Order

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) restored the official U.S. child, adolescent and adult immunization schedules to the July 2, 2025, versions in compliance with the March 16 federal court ruling in American …

MHA Leaders Present at Michigan State of Reform Health Policy Conference

The 2026 Michigan State of Reform Health Policy Conference convened May 5 in East Lansing, MI, to discuss the most pressing challenges across the healthcare continuum. Lauren LaPine-Ray, DrPH, MPH, vice president, policy & rural …

House Passes 2026 Farm Bill with Rural Health Provisions

The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026, on April 30, which includes several provisions supporting rural healthcare infrastructure, broadband expansion and behavioral health services. The …

Protect MI Care Coalition Toolkit Available to Hospitals

The Protect MI Care coalition recently shared a toolkit of resources to help coalition partners make their voices heard in support of maintaining state funding for the Michigan Medicaid program. MHA members are encouraged to …

MHA EventsRegistration for MHA Annual Membership Meeting Closes May 22

Registration for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 24-26 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island closes May 22. The event is an opportunity to learn, network and celebrate the accomplishments of the program year. …

Final Federal Loan Rule Maintains Narrow Professional Degree Definition

The U.S. Department of Education recently released a final rule implementing changes to federal student loan programs under the Reimagining and Improving Student Education initiative. The final rule includes changes to graduate and professional …

Hospital CEOs Highlight Value of Governance Fellowship

Applications are being accepted for the 2026-27 Excellence in Governance Fellowship, scheduled from October 2026 through June 2027. Chief executive officers who sponsored their board members to participate in the fellowship, as well as program …

MHA Rounds graphic of Brian PetersCEO Report — No One Knows Healthcare Better than Hospitals

Skyrocketing healthcare costs are impacting families and communities across the state. No one is more committed to addressing this problem than those providing care around the clock. Despite being on the frontlines, hospitals are under fire. …

Hospitals Help Us. Here’s How We Can Help Them.

Hospitals show up for Michigan communities around the clock to provide care, support families and strengthen the places we call home. In honor of National Hospital Week, MHA teams asked members across the state to …

Keckley Report

In US Healthcare, It’s Incrementalism before Transformation by Necessity

“This will be a quiet week for healthcare in DC with major hearings, confirmations and legislative votes not scheduled.

Last week was relatively calm as well. The House Ways and Means Committee heard testimony from hospital CEOs of HCA, ECU Health, Common Spirit and NY Presbyterian featuring accusations of price gauging and unnecessary costs. And a study that found an OpenAI model outperformed doctors in diagnostic reasoning stirred attention in the physician and healthcare tech worlds where AI’s a dirty word to some and salvation to others. …

Transformation of the system, and a clear destiny for its future are secondary to self-preservation in US healthcare today. Our investors and lenders expect it, Board compensation committees reward it, and our workforce depends on it.”

Paul Keckley, May 4, 2026

MHA in the News

Bridge Michigan published a story May 7 detailing how federal funding cuts to Medicaid will further exacerbate rural hospitals’ capacity to treat and transport patients requiring more specialized care. Lauren LaPine-Ray, DrPH, MPH, vice president, …

MHA Monday Report May 4, 2026

Member News, Monday Report

Senate Approves Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget, Organ Donor Tax Credit Legislation Advances

Several healthcare-related measures, including the full Senate budget and legislation on tax credits for organ donation, saw action during the week of April 27. The Senate advanced its full budget proposal under Senate Bill …

CMS Releases FY 2027 LTCH Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a proposed rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) long-term care hospital (LTCH) prospective payment system (IPPS) for fiscal year (FY) 2027. Highlights of the proposed rule …

Senate Introduces Legislation on Behavioral Health Transport Vehicles

Michigan’s behavioral health system has long faced a critical transportation gap — and the MHA is supporting efforts to close it. Last week, the legislature introduced two bills that represent a significant step forward for patients in crisis and the hospitals …

Fact Check: Drug Pricing Savings Are the Lifeline to Community Healthcare Services

Recent headlines have taken aim at the 340B Program – a federal drug savings initiative that serves as a lifeline to important community healthcare services. As a long-time cardiothoracic surgeon …

 

MDHHS Gun Lock Distribution Map Expands Access to Safe Storage

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) launched a new interactive Gun Lock Distribution Map to help residents locate free firearm safety devices and connect community partners with safe storage resources. The tool identifies more …

UnitedHealth to Expand Rural Payment Pilot Program

UnitedHealthcare Group announced changes to eliminate prior authorization barriers and accelerate payments for rural hospitals nationwide to improve access to care and lower costs. In January 2026, UnitedHealthcare implemented the Rural Payment Acceleration …

Rural Hospital Leaders Appointed to MHA Center of Rural Excellence Board of Trustees

Seven rural Michigan hospital leaders were recently appointed as inaugural board members to the newly established MHA Center of Rural Excellence by the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA) Board of Trustees. These members are responsible for …

Hospitals Help: Mary Free Bed Partnership Addresses Nursing Shortage, Offers Tuition Assistance

Every hour of every day, nurses provide care Michiganders can count on. As staffing shortages continue to impact various sectors of healthcare, Michigan hospitals are focused on creative solutions to …

 

Webinar Recap: Michigan 211 Community Materials Now Available

A recent webinar hosted by the MHA explored regional trends and emerging community needs across Michigan using statewide 2‑1‑1 call data. The event explored insights on call volume, caller demographics and service requests that reflect evolving pressures on individuals …

MHA Keystone Center PSO Dashboard: Turning Safety Data into Action

The MHA Keystone Center Patient Safety Organization (PSO) Dashboard in KeyMetrics provides member hospitals with secure access to harm reporting data sourced from Press Ganey’s NextPlane platform. Designed to support patient safety improvement …

News to KnowNew to Know

The MHA membership will convene in person for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 24–26.

Keckley Report

Why Those Outside Healthcare Control its Future

“I study the future of the U.S. health system. The framework I use is based on monitoring trends, lag and lead indicators in five zones of unique relevance in the health industry at home and abroad.

Based on 30 years-plus years of applying this framework to my industry surveillance process, it’s clear that traditional lag indictors like enrollment, utilization, spending, workforce supply-demand et al are less useful in predicting its future. Instead, indicators from outside healthcare seem more aligned to its future than indicators from within.

Objectively, the reality is this: the players outside healthcare including Big Tech, Big Banks and Big Employers are forcing changes faster than healthcare insiders are comfortable and the health system’s future is uncertain as a result.”

Paul Keckley, April 26, 2026

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of April 27 covering behavioral health and 340B. Common Ground published a story April 28 detailing Michigan’s behavioral health landscape. Lauren LaPine-Ray, DrPH, MPH, vice president, policy & …

MHA Monday Report April 27, 2026

Member News, Monday Report

House, Senate Advance Budget Proposals; MHA-Supported Bills Move

Budget proposals from the House and Senate advanced in their respective chambers, while MHA-supported legislation saw action during the week of April 20. House Bill 5619, sponsored by Rep. Ann Bollin (R-Brighton), passed the …

Keystone Board Advances Safety Priorities, Plans Upcoming Work

The MHA Keystone Center Board of Directors met April 8 to discuss safety and quality priorities, review governance actions and plan for the upcoming program year. Brook Watts, MD, chief quality officer, Michigan Medicine, shared …

LARA Background Check Requirements to Impact Hospice Licensing

The MHA has been working with the Michigan HomeCare & Hospice Association to raise awareness of upcoming enforcement by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) related to background check and fingerprinting requirements. …

MHA Annual Membership Meeting Explores Perception and Affordability

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, …

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 …

MHA Keystone Center Pilot Reduces Caregiver Strain

The MHA Keystone Center, in partnership with the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, released findings from a two-year pilot since implementing the Michigan Caregiver Navigation Toolkit in acute care settings. Results show reductions in caregiver strain and …

Hospitals Help Prioritize Patient and Family-Centered Care

Hospitals are improving the health and well-being of communities through a care model that fosters collaboration between clinicians, patients and their support systems. Person- and Family-Centered Care — often referred to as Patient and …

Keckley Report

For Hospitals, the Future’s not a Repeat of the Past

“Per AHA President and CEO: “The timing of our presence and voice in Washington is especially important this year. Health care affordability remains in the spotlight. Congress is discussing the prospects of one or two more reconciliation packages this year, even as we are asking them to examine the overreach and mitigate certain health care provisions from last year’s package. And we are 199 days from the midterm elections…” (AHA Today April 17, 2026)

The reality is this: hospitals have lost much of the good will they earned during the pandemic. Pushback by AHA against hospital price transparency, site neutral payments, 340B changes et al. have been successful. But heightened visibility about executive compensation, profitability, tax exemptions, private equity ownership concerns and for-profit venture-development has eroded Congressional favor, exacerbated nurse and physician burnout and lessened community support. AHA is aware. …

I do not think the future of the U.S. health system will be a repeat of its past. That’s good news and bad news for hospitals.”

Paul Keckley, April 19, 2026

MHA in the News

Adam Carlson, senior vice president, advocacy, MHA, joined JJ Hodshire, president and chief executive officer, Hillsdale Hospital, for a press conference April 17 to discuss how proposed cuts to Medicaid will further destabilize hospitals …

MHA Monday Report April 20, 2026

Member News, Monday Report

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

Member News, Monday Report

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

Member News, Monday Report

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

Monday Report, Member News

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

Member News, Monday Report

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

Member News, Monday Report

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

Member News, Monday Report

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 …