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 was shared as part of the MHA’s participation in the Protect MI Care coalition that is urging members of Congress to protect Medicaid. The op-ed expressed the importance of Medicaid to Michigan’s healthcare system and the consequences to access to care for all Michiganders if significant funding cuts are implemented.
“The effects would ripple far beyond those who rely on Medicaid — every hospital, mental health clinic and nursing home that depends on Medicaid funding would feel the impact,” said Peters. “When facilities close, it’s not just Medicaid patients who lose out — it’s everyone in the community, regardless of what kind of insurance they have.”
MHA Executive Vice President Laura Appel also sat down with WILX News 10 on April 30 to discuss the potential funding cuts and appeared in a story published by Bridge on May 1 about the impact to rural providers.
“When we close intensive care for newborns, when we close labor and delivery units, they are closing for everyone,” said Appel to Bridge.
In other news, Crain’s Detroit Business published an article April 30 committee testimony on legislation that would have Michigan join the nurse licensure compact. MHA Chief Nursing Officer Amy Brown testified in support of the legislation and is quoted in the article.
“In addition to recruitment and coordination of care in our state’s border areas, joining the compact would positively benefit telehealth access,” said Brown. “Compact licensure means residents in Michigan can access more telehealth professionals in other compact states, increasing access points for our state’s residents.”
Appel also appeared on 760 WJR’s All Talk With Kevin Dietz on May 1 to discuss the compact.
Members with any questions regarding media requests should contact John Karasinski at the MHA.