Category: Monday Report

MHA Monday Report May 12, 2025

Member News, Monday Report

Michigan Senate Hears MHA Testimony on ED Boarding Challenges, MHA Opposes Introduced MCPA Bill

The MHA provided testimony May 7 to the Senate Health Policy Committee on certain challenges related to hospital emergency department boarding for behavioral health patients. The Senate Health Policy Committee heard about patients facing behavioral …

Protect MI Care Coalition Partners Share Majority of Michiganders Oppose Medicaid Cuts

The MHA joined other Protect MI Care Coalition partners in releasing public polling results that show 83% of Michiganders want to see Medicaid spending increased or kept the same as Congress considers cutting hundreds of …

speak upBronson Battle Creek Hospital Nurse Honored with Q1 MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award

The MHA Keystone Center recognized Season Willi, RN at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital, as its quarterly MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award recipient May 8. The Speak-up! Award honors individuals or …

MDHHS Enacts Blood Lead Testing Mandate for Young Children

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently finalized administrative rules requiring blood lead testing for all children at 12 and 24 months of age, following legislation signed into law by Gov. Gretchen …

MHA Keystone Center PSO to Host Cybersecurity Safe Table

The MHA Keystone Center Patient Safety Organization (PSO) and MHA Endorsed Business Partner CyberForce|Q, will host a Safe Table event focused on adapting clinical risk management practices for cybersecurity. The session will be held from …

MDHHS Offers Loan Repayment to Expand Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

To help close critical gaps in opioid addiction treatment across Michigan, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is offering student loan repayment to eligible healthcare providers who begin or expand opioid use disorder …

MHA Keystone Center PSO Launches SAFER Webinar Series

The MHA Keystone Center PSO, in partnership with EisnerAmper, is launching a new webinar series focused on the 2025 Safety Assurance Factors for Electronic Health Record Resilience (SAFER) guidelines. The free series …

Applications for the MHA Excellence in Governance Fellowship Due in June

Applications will be accepted through June 27 for the 2025–2026 cohort of the MHA Excellence in Governance Fellowship. By participating, hospital board members will advance their skills and knowledge to elevate the organizations they serve. …

In the Middle of Nowhere and Everything: Why Our Community Hospital Matters

I live in a rural town—what I call the middle of nowhere, and everywhere. We’re miles from the nearest city, surrounded by open space instead of traffic. But out here, you learn to value what’s close. In the city, everything is nearby. …

Addressing Hurdles for Behavioral Health Patients Seeking Care in the ED

The MHA released a new episode of the MiCare Champion Cast exploring the need to expand the pre-admission screening assessment for behavioral health providers. Lauren LaPine, senior director of legislative & public policy, MHA, joined …

MHA Rounds image of Brian PetersMHA CEO Report — Highlighting Hospitals

This month’s CEO Report is being filed from Washington, DC, where I am honored to join my colleagues from throughout our state and nation at the American Hospital Association’s Annual Meeting. On the agenda are …

Keckley Report

The Next 100 Days: What Healthcare Should Expect

The Trump administration is moving into its second 100 days facing conditions more problematic than its first 100. For healthcare, this period will define the industry’s near-term future as changes in three domains unfold:

  • The Economy: The economy is volatile and consumer confidence is waning. The impact of tariffs on U.S. prices remains an unknown and escalating tension between the Ukraine and Russia, Israel and Palestine, Pakistan and India are worrisome. Household debt is mounting as student loans, medical debt and housing costs imperil financial security for more than half of U.S. households. The 3 major stock indices remain in the red YTD, prospects for a recession are high and investors are increasingly cautious. Net impact on healthcare organizations and public programs: negative, especially those without strong balance sheets and access to affordable private capital.
  • The Courts: Recent opinions by the Supreme Court and District Courts suggest a willingness to challenge the administration’s Executive Orders on immigrant deportation and due process, threats and funding cuts aimed at law firms and universities considered “woke” and layoffs initiated by DOGE and more. Court challenges will slow the administration’s agenda and create uncertainty in workplaces. Net impact: negative. Uncertainty paralyses planning and operations in every public and private healthcare organization.
  • The Public Mood: The afterglow of the election has dissipated and the public’s mood has shifted from guarded optimism to anxiety and despair. The public’s uncertain about tariffs and worried about household expenses. Net impact: negative. Healthcare affordability and prices are major concerns to consumers: the majority (76%) think the system is more concerned about profitability than patient care (Jarrard).

The next 100 days will define the national agenda for the mid-term election in November 2026, reflect the solidarity of the MAGA movement and show the impact of tariffs on inflation, consumer prices and the public’s mood.

Healthcare leaders will be watching closely. All will be impacted.

Paul Keckley, May 5, 2025

New to KnowNews to Know

  • MHA Endorsed Business Partner Vault Verify, is offering a free webinar People, Process and Protection: Rethinking HR Data Strategy hosted by the Massachusetts Hospital Association from 12 – 12:30 p.m. ET May 13.
  • MHA Endorsed Business Partner Medical Solutions, will host the free webinar Workforce Wellness: Effective Approaches to Foster Well-being and Retention in Healthcare from 1 to 2 p.m. ET May 19.

MHA Monday Report May 5, 2025

Member News, Monday Report

Wellpath Supplemental Testimony Highlights Week of Advocacy Efforts

The MHA provided testimony April 30 to the House Appropriations Committee about healthcare services provided to prisoners by Michigan hospitals that have not been reimbursed by Wellpath, a third-party …

MHA Annual Membership Meeting Brings Opportunities for Learning and Connection

The MHA membership will convene in person for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 25 –27 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The annual membership meeting is an opportunity to learn, network and celebrate …

Healthcare Leaders Convene for the Return of the MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium

More than 100 healthcare professionals gathered April 28 and 29 in East Lansing for the return of the MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium. Attendees included individuals across the continuum of care including quality, …

mha advancing safe care awardCorewell Health Suicide Care & Prevention Team Receives MHA Advancing Safe Care Award

The MHA announced the winner of its 2025 Advancing Safe Care Award April 28, honoring Corewell Health’s suicide care and prevention team. The award was announced during the MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium. …

Members Engage in PFE Webinar During Patient Experience Week

More than 50 patient experience, nurses and quality professionals participated in the MHA Person & Family Engagement (PFE) Improvement Sprint webinar Hospital Staffing and Structures Needed to Support and Coordinate PFE Activities during Patient Experience …

MI AIM Opens Applications for $25,000 Grant for Participating Birthing Hospitals

The Michigan Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (MI AIM) recently announced its partnership with United Healthcare to offer $25,000 to three birthing hospitals in Michigan to purchase equipment to support staff education. All Michigan …

The Five Things I Love Most About Nurses

In a few short days, I will celebrate one year as the inaugural chief nursing officer for the MHA. This position has given me the privilege of bringing together nurse leaders from across the state and country, …

Keckley Report

The 7 Issues Hospital Trustees worry About Most

“This Sunday, the American Hospital Association will convene for its Annual Meeting in DC featuring 50 speakers covering a wide range of topics. It comes at a precarious time for hospitals as Congress begins its budget reconciliation bill process that is expected to include a number of cuts to healthcare spending negatively impacting hospital finances directly. This week also marks the Trump Administration’s 100-day milestone which has seen its popularity decline and economic uncertainty mount. …

Transformational change in the U.S. health system is not contemplated by trustees because near-term survival requires their full attention. That’s a view reinforced by the hospital CEO and consistent with their admittedly limited understanding of the entire system. …

AHA and its Coalition to Strengthen America’s Healthcare have successfully defended hospitals against unwelcome regulations and disruptive competitors. It has successfully reinforced antipathy toward health insurers and deflected criticism of its prices to forces outside its control i.e. labor costs, drug and supply chain costs, unnecessary regulation, under-payments by Medicare and Medicaid and more.”

Paul Keckley, April 28, 2025

New to KnowNews to Know

The MHA is issuing a request for proposal for a $2.5 million competitive grant program for Michigan healthcare entities to expand access to hospital-based peer recovery coach services.

MHA in the News

The MHA was successful in placing several news stories during the week of April 28 related to potential federal Medicaid funding cuts. The Lansing State Journal published an op-ed from MHA CEO Brian Peters that …

MHA Monday Report April 28, 2025

Member News, Monday Report

MHA Testifies on Nurse Licensure Compact Bills, Senate Passes Prescription Drug Affordability Board and Momnibus Legislation

The House Health Policy heard testimony from the MHA in support of creating a nurse licensure compact and the Senate voted to establish a Prescription Drug Affordability Board in the state of Michigan during the …

GME Capitol Day Approaches May 21

The MHA is hosting the 2025 MHA Graduate Medical Education (GME) Capitol Day from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. May 21 in Lansing. The event is an opportunity for Michigan’s physician residents from teaching hospitals and academic …

CMS Releases FY 2026 Proposed Rule for Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a proposed rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service prospective payment system for inpatient psychiatric facilities for fiscal year (FY) 2026. Key provisions of the proposed rule include: Increasing the …

MHA Unemployment Compensation Program Receives Award for Outstanding Performance

The MHA Unemployment Compensation Program (UCP) was recognized by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) April 24 for the MHA UCP’s commitment to utilizing the NASWA’s nationwide, web-based system SIDES for receiving new claims and responding to …

CMS Releases FY 2026 Proposed Rule for Skilled Nursing Facilities

The CMS recently released a proposed rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service prospective payment system for skilled nursing facilities for fiscal year (FY) 2026. Key provisions of the proposed rule include: Increasing the per-diem …

Celebrate Patient Experience Week with Upcoming Webinars

The MHA is offering ways for hospital staff to engage during Patient Experience Week (April 28-May 2), to support and amplify patient-centered care. The upcoming Patient and Family Engagement Improvement Sprint webinar series, hosted …

CMS Releases FY 2026 Proposed Rule for Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities

The CMS recently released a proposed rule to update the Medicare fee-for-service prospective payment system for inpatient rehabilitation facilities for fiscal year (FY) 2026. Key provisions of the proposed rule include: Increasing the …

MHA Virtual Member Forum Focuses on Cyberattack Response

The MHA, in conjunction with its statewide Health Information Technology Strategy Committee, is hosting a cybersecurity and cyberattack response virtual member forum from 9:30 to 11 a.m. May 9. This free, members-only event features six …

The Power of Patient-Centered Care

It’s no secret that patient experience within hospitals and health systems has evolved over the years – especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. With Patient Experience Week (PX Week) around the corner, it’s a good time to recognize the …

Keckley Report

Tax Exempt Status for Not-for-Profit Hospitals: The Debate Ahead

“Tax exemptions for hospitals are not a new topic inside healthcare, but lately they’ve drawn outside attention from regulators and in media. They seem to be asking ‘Do not-for-profit hospitals deserve their tax breaks?’ …

Hospitals face a headwind, especially those that are tax-exempt. Every U.S. hospital is reeling from the uncertainty surrounding the Kennedy (HHS)-Oz (CMS)-Makary (FDA) trifecta that will regulate hospital affairs in the next few months. Every hospital is feeling heat from disgruntled physicians and worn-out frontline caregivers. Every hospital is worried about how tariffs will impact supply chain costs and all are taking a cautious approach to major capital projects. And all face increased pushback from state legislators who think price controls on hospitals might be the answer.

For Rick Pollack and team at the American Hospital Association, it’s not business as usual. The hospital big tent is under duress. And NFP tax exempt hospitals might be where it’s hottest. Large employers have targeted large NFP systems for cost reduction and Congress appears poised to impose restrictions on NFPs intended to rein-in what some consider excesses under the protection of tax-exempt status. …

Spending in healthcare at current levels is not sustainable. NFP system say the health of the communities they serve is their highest priority, though many limit their attention to lucrative services while neglecting others that might pay longer-term dividends in public health.

Utopian? Yes, but necessary. Actions not taken by NFP systems to demonstrate they deserve their tax exemptions is risky. And lack of will to adopt minimal standards will ultimately mean exemptions are linked to charity-care only.

In 2025 and beyond, tax exemptions for not-for-profit hospitals will garner attention. They’re not guaranteed and they’re under attack.”

Paul Keckley, April 21, 2025

New to KnowNews to Know

  • The MHA is issuing a request for proposal for a $2.5 million competitive grant program for Michigan healthcare entities to expand access to hospital-based peer recovery coach services.
  • Registration is now open for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 25 through 27 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Members are encouraged to register by May 23 to attend this memorable event. 

Jim Lee speaks with Mid-Michigan NOW about AI.

MHA in the News

Jim Lee, senior vice president, data policy & analytics, MHA, appeared in a story about artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare aired by Mid-Michigan NOW on April 23. Lee discussed how AI is being used by …

MHA Monday Report April 21, 2025

Member News, Monday Report

MHA Member Provides Testimony to House Health Policy Committee; Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact Bills Clear Committee

The House Health Policy Committee heard testimony from stakeholders on legislation to establish a Physician Assistant Licensure Compact in the state and Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact bills were voted to the House floor …

MHA CEO Brian Peters Joins 2025 State of Reform Health Policy Panel

The 2025 Michigan State of Reform Health Policy Conference convened April 17 in East Lansing, MI. The morning session began with a panel moderated by Farah Hanley, managing principal, Health Management Associates alongside MHA CEO …

MHA Keystone Center Receives Harry L. McKinley Workplace Safety Leadership Award

The MHA Keystone Center was honored April 15 at the Michigan Workplace Safety Conference for providing essential workplace safety resources to Michigan healthcare organizations and their staff. The Harry L. McKinley Workplace Safety Leadership Award …

CMS Releases FY 2026 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 long-term care hospital (LTCH) prospective payment system for fiscal year (FY) 2026. Specifically, the rule proposes …

RFP Available for Hospital-Based Peer Recovery Coach Services

The MHA is issuing a request for proposal (RFP) for a $2.5 million competitive grant program for Michigan healthcare entities to expand access to hospital-based peer recovery coach services. The funding was appropriated by …

Updated Hospital Medicaid Communications Toolkit Available

The MHA recently updated a toolkit of communications resources to support hospitals in advocating against potential Medicaid funding cuts in their local communities. The toolkit includes: Talking points Template letter-to-the-editor Template press release Social media …

CMS Releases FY 2026 Hospital IPPS 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 (IPPS) for fiscal year (FY) 2026. The rule proposes to: Increase the standard …

MW-TEC to Host Informational Webinar on Social Work Apprenticeship Opportunities

The Michigan Workforce Training & Education Collaborative (MW-TEC) will host an informational webinar at 10 a.m. April 23 discussing social work apprenticeship opportunities. With a growing demand for behavioral health workers, apprenticeship programs can serve …

Latest AHA Trustee Insights Outlines the Value of Nursing Board Leadership and Compliance Duties

The April edition of Trustee Insights, the monthly digital package from the American Hospital Association (AHA), highlights the podcasts, videos, webinar and other resources available on today’s most pressing healthcare issues. National Nurses Week honors the …

Keckley Report

For U.S. Healthcare, Public Reaction to Tariffs is Instructive

“Last week, new cycles paid close attention to the economy with news mixed: The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index hit a five year low of 50.80. But the Consumer Price Index showed a slight decline (2.4% in March) as gas prices continued to drop. And speculation about a recession drew coverage as Goldman, BlackRock, JP Morgan and others raised their estimates of its likelihood. …

While tariffs and trade policy are not understood by the vast majority of the U.S. population, most of the population feels the complicated issues around trade policy, tariffs and the economy beyond their control. The same can be said for views about U.S. healthcare.  Most don’t understand the system and how it operates. They think it’s complicated and expensive and believe corporate interests are playing a larger role.  What they do understand is what they spend and how unpredictable those expenses are. Like tariffs, they’re anxious and concerned. …

As Congress debates Budget Reconciliation aka ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ this week and the IRS’ Income Tax deadline hits taxpayers tomorrow, what’s spent on healthcare by the government and by taxpayers will not escape notice. The majority of Americans and lawmakers think the system is underperforming and unnecessarily expensive. And acrimony between insurers, hospitals, physicians and drug companies will deepen old wounds and lend to public confusion.

The Trump administration’s first 3 months is getting mixed reviews largely because tariffs are not understood. The same is true for the health system. Its prices and their underlying costs are largely hidden and the public’s tired of excuses.

Tariffs might be a good thing for the economy or something else. Like healthcare, the public’s anxious about the future of the U.S. economy and unsure about what’s next.”

Paul Keckley, April 14, 2025

New to KnowNews to Know

In the latest episode of the MiCare Champion Cast, Laura Appel, executive vice president of government relations & public policy at the MHA, explores how proposed reductions to Medicaid could disrupt access to care and harm Michigan hospitals, patients and communities.

MHA in the News

MHA CEO Brian Peters was quoted in a Crain’s Grand Rapids article pushing back against the release of a Lown Institute report about Michigan nonprofit hospital community benefit spending. The report intentionally omits IRS Form …

MHA Monday Report April 14, 2025

Monday Report, Member News

U.S. House Advances Budget Resolution, Sets Up Potential Medicaid Cuts

The United States House of Representatives advanced a Senate budget resolution April 10 that calls for a minimum of $1.5 trillion in federal spending reductions. A separate budget resolution previously passed by the House in …

Registration Now Open for MHA Annual Membership Meeting

Registration is now open for the MHA Annual Membership Meeting June 25 through 27 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The annual meeting will feature an outstanding lineup of speakers, including Geeta Nayyar, MD, …

AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack Addresses MHA Board

The MHA Board of Trustees welcomed AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack to its April 9 meeting at the MHA’s Capitol Advocacy Center in downtown Lansing. The board meeting primarily focused on how to effectively …

MHA to Host GME Capitol Day May 21

The MHA is hosting the 2025 MHA Graduate Medical Education (GME) Capitol Day from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. May 21 in Lansing. The event is an opportunity for Michigan’s physician residents from teaching hospitals …

MI AIM Spring Regional Training Approaching

The Michigan Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (MI AIM) is offering regional training sessions for inpatient maternal health providers focused on implementing the hypertension safety bundle and addressing common challenges with implementation. The one-hour …

MHA Virtual Member Forum on Cybersecurity and Cyberattack Response

The MHA, in conjunction with its statewide Health Information Technology Strategy Committee, is hosting the virtual member forum Cybersecurity and Cyberattack Response from 9:30 to 11 a.m. May 9 as an ongoing effort to strengthen …

MHA Shares Medicare and Medicaid Enrollment Analysis

The MHA recently updated its analysis of Medicaid and Medicare enrollment based on February 2025 data. The analysis includes program enrollment as a percentage of each county’s total population and the split between fee-for-service and …

Excellence in Governance Fellowship Offers Meaningful Dialogue Among Trustees and Experts

Applications are now being accepted for the 2025-2026 the MHA Excellence in Governance Fellowship. Launched more than 20 years ago, is a rigorous and comprehensive program delivering tools and knowledge in effective governance, improving quality …

The Power of Patient-Centered Care

It’s no secret that patient experience within hospitals and health systems has evolved over the years – especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. With Patient Experience Week (PX Week) around the corner, it’s a good time to recognize the …

Keckley Report

The 5 Emergent Issues for Boards in Trump-DOGE Healthcare

“This was a week for healthcare that’s unprecedented in modern history …

None of these is a surprise. Since the Trump inauguration January 20, a shake-up in federal government has been promised and last week’s actions show it’s serious.  Polls show a majority of Americans distrust the federal government, Congress, the media and the health system, so disruption is expected. But the nation’s divided about solutions, and healthcare is no exception.  …

The events of last week portend more pressure on healthcare Boards and management to execute. In these 5 areas, each organization should revisit current policies and strategies and refresh where appropriate. And each organization should evaluate current relationships with trade groups with whom advocacy efforts are coordinated to assure they’re responsive to the realities of healthcare in the Trump-DOGE era.”

Paul Keckley, April 6, 2024

New to KnowNews to Know

  • Kara Heck, MHA, BSN, RN-BC, CCRN, chair of the MHA Safety & Quality Committee, shares a testimonial encouraging healthcare leaders to attend the MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium, taking place April 28–29, 2025, at the Kellogg Conference Center & Hotel in East Lansing.
  • The American Hospital Association (AHA) is accepting applications for the annual 2026 AHA Foster G. McGaw Prize now through May 6, 2025.

Laura Appel speaks with 9&10 News.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of April 7 on potential Medicaid funding cuts, pediatric behavioral health and healthcare costs. 9& 10 News aired a story April 9 on potential federal Medicaid funding cuts. MHA …

MHA Monday Report April 7, 2025

Member News, Monday Report

Deadline Nearing to Register for the MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium

The April 18 registration deadline is quickly approaching for the MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium, scheduled for April 28 –29, 2025, at the Kellogg Conference Center & Hotel, East Lansing. Multiple breakout sessions, …

New Resources for Patient Rights in Psychiatric Hospitals

The MHA recently collaborated with the Mental Health Association of Michigan and Disability Rights Michigan to develop resources outlining patient rights in psychiatric hospitals across Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio. These assets are modeled after …

Michigan HR Professionals Gather at the MHA Human Resources Conference

More than 100 healthcare human resources (HR) professionals from across the state gathered at the MHA Human Resources Conference March 25 in Lansing. Attendees participated in small group discussions that developed innovative ideas focused on …

MiCare Champion Cast Header PhotoHow Could Medicaid Cuts Impact Michigan?

The MHA released a new episode of the MiCare Champion Cast exploring how proposed reductions to Medicaid could disrupt access to care and harm Michigan hospitals, patients and communities. Laura Appel, executive vice president of …

MHA Rounds image of Brian PetersMHA CEO Report — Prioritizing Rural Health

While snow continues to fall in northern Michigan, spring is officially here, and for many, that means our weekend travel plans shift from skiing and snowmobiling to camping, hiking and boating. Rural Michigan is an amazing travel destination for many, …

Keckley Report

Healthcare is Low Hanging Fruit for Trump: Disruption is the Aim

“The health system is low hanging fruit for federal spending hawks and government reformers. It’s increasingly evident the Trump administration’s well aware. …

This week, Congress returns to DC to continue its budget reconciliation deliberations against a backdrop of growing anxiety about an economic downturn and potential recession.  The stock market is down 10% from its February 19 high and consumer sentiment about the economy hit a 12-year low last week. Notably, households of low and middle-income means are experiencing record levels of debt and unpaid bills: these include 4 million in lower-paying healthcare jobs and 3 million unpaid family caregivers who can’t afford to pay for outside care. And physicians, now 3 months into their fifth-year without a Medicare reimbursement increase, are simply mad and burnt-out.

Today, every healthcare organization (public/private) is operating in limbo: leaders are worried, lenders are more cautious, researchers and public health agencies are paralyzed, state and local health officials are preparing for the worst and hospitals, medical practices, ancillary and long-term care providers face an insecure, disgruntled workforce.

The playbook for everyone in U.S. healthcare—payers, providers, suppliers and advisors—is being re-written.”

Paul Keckley, March 30, 2025

News to Know

  • The MHA was recently awarded $2.5 million to expand hospital-based peer recovery coach (PRC) services and is requesting members complete a brief survey by April 11 to assess current use and interest in PRC programs.
  • The Michigan Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (MI AIM) is offering regional training sessions April 23 for inpatient maternal health providers focused on implementing the hypertension safety bundle and addressing common challenges with implementation.
  • MHA Endorsed Business Partner AMN Healthcare will host the free webinar Balancing the Complexities of the Healthcare Workforce in Rural Markets from 11 a.m. to noon ET April 10.

MHA CEO Brian Peters speaks during a virtual media roundtable about Medicaid.

MHA in the News

A virtual media roundtable hosted April 3 by the Michigan League for Public Policy included MHA CEO Brian Peters as a panelist, where he discussed the consequences for potential Medicaid funding cuts by Congress. Crain’s …

MHA Monday Report March 31, 2025

Member News, Monday Report

Healthcare Laws Set to Take Effect April 2025

More than 30 healthcare laws signed by Gov. Whitmer from last term are set to take effect on or after April 1. Some of these laws include state level Affordable Care Act codifications, increased …

Feedback Requested for Peer Recovery Coach Funding

The MHA was recently awarded $2.5 million to expand access to hospital-based peer recovery coach services. The funding was appropriated by the Michigan Legislature as part of the state fiscal year 2025 budget to …

MDHHS Seeks Committee Members for MMRC Program and Recommendations Workgroup

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Maternal Mortality Surveillance Program is seeking professionals and community members to join the Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC) and Recommendations Workgroup. These committees play a …

HHS Renews Ongoing Opioid Crisis PHE

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced March 18 the renewal of the public health emergency (PHE) declaration addressing the ongoing opioid crisis. This extension, which lasts for 90 days, allows continued federal …

MDHHS Launches New Public Health Dashboard

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently launched the Michigan Public Health Dashboard, a tool designed to improve access to key health data and support informed decision-making. This publicly accessible resource assists …

MHA Members Share Strategies for Advancing Person and Family Engagement

Members of the MHA Person & Family Engagement (PFE) Advisory Council will share how integrating the MHA Roadmap to Person and Family Engagement develops and strengthens PFE efforts in their organizations through two upcoming PFE …

How Policy Shapes the Patient Experience: Reflections from a Public Policy Fellow

The Institute for Healthcare Improvement Patient Safety Congress brought together voices from across the healthcare spectrum March 9 – 11, uniting leaders, learners and advocates in a shared goal of delivering safer care to …

Keckley Report

The Fundamental Flaw of the Affordable Care Act

Today marks the 15th anniversary of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). It is the most consequential and controversial health legislation in our country’s history since LBJ’s Social Security Amendments created Medicare and Medicaid in 1965.

When passed March 23, 2010, 41% of adults held a favorable view of the law vs. 44% who were unfavorable. Today, 64% have a favorable view vs. 36% unfavorable (KFF). The 900-page law sought expansion of insurance coverage, reduced health costs and improved quality of care. But its results to date are mixed: coverage increased from 84% to 92% but costs have grown unabated and quality improvements have been significant in some areas and negligible in others.

In retrospect, the ACA is fundamentally flawed because it failed to recognize changes in the healthcare marketplace upon which systemic improvements could be achieved …

The ACA defaulted to a focus on insurance coverage and neglected attention to cost containment and quality improvement. As its implementation unfolded from 2010-2013, insurance coverage drew the lion’s share of attention and political opposition grew. Key amendments i.e. the deletion of mandates (proposed by conservative think-tanks to stabilize risk pools) and the June 2012 Supreme Court decision that delegated Medicaid expansion to states neutered its impact. Would-be systemic reforms became incremental changes comfortable to insiders and non-responsive to outsiders.

The ACA is fundamentally flawed because its Beltway-based collaborators did not accurately assess the environment and assumed incremental improvement to the status quo was enough. They were wrong; the public’s demanding more.

The ACA is an important component in health policy today but its fundamental flaw should be acknowledged.”

Paul Keckley, March 23, 2025

News to Know

  • Registration is open for the highly anticipated MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium, scheduled for April 28 and 29, 2025, at the Kellogg Conference Center & Hotel, East Lansing.
  • The American Hospital Association (AHA) is accepting applications for the annual 2026 AHA Foster G. McGaw Prize now through May 6, 2025.

Lauren LaPineMHA in the News

Lauren LaPine, senior director, legislative and public policy, MHA, appeared on the MIRS Monday podcast published March 24 to discuss the state behavioral health system. LaPine spoke about the challenges associated with patients boarding in …

MHA Monday Report March 24, 2025

Monday Report, Member News

Senate Hears MHA Testimony on Medicaid; Licensure Compact House Bills Advance

The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee of the Department of Health and Human Services heard testimony from the MHA on Medicaid funding and various licensure compact bills advanced in the House during the week of March …

Registration Open for MHA Virtual Member Forum on Cybersecurity and Cyberattack Response

The MHA, in conjunction with its statewide Health Information Technology Strategy Committee, will host the virtual member forum Cybersecurity and Cyberattack Response from 9:30 – 11 a.m. May 9. During the webinar, leaders from six …

MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium Approved for CE Credits

Registration is open for the highly anticipated MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium, scheduled for April 28 – 29, 2025, at the Kellogg Conference Center & Hotel, East Lansing. The symposium, offering continuing education …

Applications Open for 2026 AHA Foster G. McGaw Prize

The American Hospital Association (AHA) is accepting applications for the annual 2026 AHA Foster G. McGaw Prize now through May 6, 2025. The prize honors health delivery organizations that demonstrate alignment between community health needs …

Latest AHA Trustee Insights Outlines Techniques to Build Skills in Three Critical Areas

The March edition of Trustee Insights, the monthly digital package from the AHA, highlights podcasts, videos, webinars and other resources available on today’s most pressing healthcare issues. March articles include: Ways for boards …

Keckley Report

Are the 7 Presumptions on which the U.S. Health System is Built still Relevant?

“Years ago, I taught an introductory class at Vanderbilt’s Owen Graduate School of Management to medical students also pursuing an MBA degree. Its intent was to equip future caregivers with the aptitude to lead healthcare organizations in the development of strategies for growth and innovation. …

I remain optimistic healthcare leaders will look beyond near-term incrementalism to long-term transformational change. Lacking the attention it deserves; the U.S. system will become a large public utility for most and a concierge alternative for the few.

The 7 presumptions on which the U.S. system is built are no longer valid as a foundation for its future. They need modernization. And well-intended leaders in healthcare should use that process to define the system’s future state while there’s time to consider options.”

Paul Keckley, March 17, 2025

New to KnowNews to Know

  • In order to continue sharing with key stakeholders the important impact hospitals make to their communities, the MHA invites members to share examples of strong community impact programming through a brief survey.
  • The Michigan Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (MI AIM) is offering regional training sessions April 23 for inpatient maternal health providers focused on implementing the hypertension safety bundle and addressing common challenges with implementation.

MHA Monday Report March 17, 2025

Member News, Monday Report

Legislative Policy Panel Acts on Opioid Treatment Policies

The MHA Legislative Policy Panel met virtually March 12 to develop recommendations on legislative and policy issues impacting Michigan hospitals. The MHA advocacy team provided important updates to the panel on healthcare activities at both …

MHA Member Supply Chain Leaders Share Insights and Resources

MHA staff recently attended the Navigating Supply Chain Challenges in the Current Healthcare Environment event hosted March 4 by the Great Lakes Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives. This participation represents the MHA’s …

MHA Upcoming PFE Webinars Focus on Advancing Patient-Centered Care

The MHA, in conjunction with its statewide Person & Family Engagement (PFE) Advisory Council, is excited to offer the PFE Improvement Sprints, a webinar series designed to help hospitals and health systems amplify PFE efforts. …

Applications Open for 2025-2026 Excellence in Governance Fellowship

Applications for the 2025-2026 Excellence in Governance Fellowship are now open for healthcare board members seeking innovative and effective ways to lead their organizations as hospitals and health systems navigate financial strain and labor challenges. …

Balancing the Complexities of the Healthcare Workforce in Rural Markets

MHA Endorsed Business Partner AMN Healthcare will host the webinar Balancing the Complexities of the Healthcare Workforce in Rural Markets from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET April 10. Speakers John Higgins, vice president of Essentia Health, a …

Keckley Report

DOGE Healthcare Targets prompt Uncomfortable Questions

In the President’s 99-minute address to Congress last Tuesday, not a mention of healthcare. None. Nada. Go figure.

It’s not surprising but totally regrettable. Politicians on both sides of the aisle know it’s a vital industry to the population’s well-being and the economy’s overall stability. It accounts for a fourth of all job gains in monthly Bureau of Labor jobs reports. It also represents 28% of total federal spending (includes HHS + Veterans Health) with the CBO forecasting 5.5% annual growth through 2032. Thus, it’s not surprising it’s a target of ongoing DOGE federal spending cuts and prominent in this week’s budget reconciliation vote by Congress to avoid a shut down.

Two programs are initial targets: Medicaid and Veterans Affairs. Each is big and serves unique populations …

The impact of proposed Medicaid and VA cuts will draw attention to the overall health system, prompting its critics to argue its wastefulness and its defenders to blame inadequate funding or unfair regulation.”

Paul Keckley, March 10, 2025

New to KnowNews to Know

  • Registration is open for the highly anticipated MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium, scheduled for April 28 and 29, 2025, at the Kellogg Conference Center & Hotel, East Lansing.
  • Lenise Freeman, a current Government Relations and Public Policy Fellow, was recently selected to participate in The Center for Health and Research Transformation (CHRT) at the University of Michigan Health Policy Fellowship.

MHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of March 10 on the 340B program and potential federal Medicaid funding cuts with outlets including MichMash, Crain’s Grand Rapids Business and 9&10 News. MHA CEO Brian Peters appeared on the March 14 episode …

MHA Monday Report March 10, 2025

Member News, Monday Report

Senate Passes 340B Hospital Protections & IMLC Clears House

The Michigan Senate passed legislation that protects 340B hospitals with bipartisan support while the Michigan House of Representations voted through legislation that removes the sunset on the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) during the week …

Hospital Medicaid Communications Toolkit Available

The MHA recently released a toolkit of communications resources to support hospitals in advocating against potential Medicaid funding cuts in their local communities. The toolkit includes: Talking points Template letter-to-the-editor Template press release Social media …

HHS Rescinds Richardson Waiver Policy on Public Participation

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently announced the rescinding of the Public Participation in Rule Making (Richardson Waiver), which invited public participation in rulemaking related to federal rules and regulations. HHS Secretary …

MDHHS Medicaid Provider Manual Available April 1

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently completed the April 2025 update to the MDHHS Medicaid Provider Manual, which will be available online April 1, 2025. This update aims to clarify coverage …

MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium Approved for CE Credits

Registration is open for the highly anticipated MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium, scheduled for April 28 & 29, 2025, at the Kellogg Conference Center & Hotel, East Lansing. The symposium, offering continuing education …

Regional Training April 23 for Maternal Health Providers on Hypertension Safety

The Michigan Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health is offering regional training sessions for inpatient maternal health providers focused on implementing the hypertension safety bundle and addressing common challenges with implementation. The one-hour …

Keckley Report

The Four Unwritten Rules for Engaging the Nashville Healthcare Industry

“This year, the Nashville Heath Care Council is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Its 900 members employ 333,000 and contribute $68 billion to the local economy. It hosts global conferences (VIVE, Sessions) among its 80+ events annually and promotes Nashville as the healthcare innovation hub of the planet. It is dominated by publicly traded health services companies and the armies of advisors, lawyers, accountants and analysts they employ. …

The Nashville healthcare community will not attempt to transform the industry: that’s for others. It will engage on industry challenges that require technology-enabled solutions, private capital and experienced operators. It is not paralyzed by regulation, industry norms, trade association affiliations or tradition. It is prone to think of healthcare as a opportunistic market, celebrate its profitability and leave systemic issues for others to fix.

The Nashville healthcare community is a fast follower: the bleeding edge is for others.  But in following fast, it has emerged as a key influencer in Trump healthcare policies and their execution.”

Paul Keckley, March 3, 2025

New to KnowNews to Know

  • The MHA Human Resources Conference is quickly approaching on March 25, 2025 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Lansing.
  • In order to continue sharing with key stakeholders the important impact hospitals make to their communities, the MHA invites members to share examples of strong community impact programming through a brief survey.

Elizabeth KutterMHA in the News

The MHA received media coverage the week of March 3 on the Michigan Senate passing legislation that protects the 340B program, the potential impact of tariffs on hospitals and healthcare costs, as well as a …