MHA Monday Report April 14, 2025

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 …

News to Know – April 14, 2025

New to Know
  • New to KnowKara 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.Members are encouraged to register by the April 18 deadline. The symposium offers continuing education credits for physicians, nurses, and social workers. For more information, contact Erica Leyko at the MHA. Questions about registration should be directed to Janice Jones at the MHA.
  • 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 and co-designed programs. The award will honor one winner and up to three finalists who will be recognized at the 2026 AHA Leadership Summit in Denver. Members that are improving community health and well-being through leadership and community partnerships in Michigan are encouraged to apply. Members interested in learning more are encouraged to visit the AHA website. Those with questions may contact the AHA.

MHA Monday Report April 7, 2025

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 …

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, led by clinical teams researching and implementing best practices, will address key quality and safety priorities such as creating a zero-harm culture, situational awareness, reducing mental health sigma, building wellbeing, supporting family caregivers and improving data.

Kara Heck, MHA, BSN, RN-BC, CCRN, chair of the MHA Safety & Quality Committee, provides a testimonial about her decision to attend and her recommendation that colleagues do the same. The online detailed agenda outlines the numerous learning opportunities.

Numerous networking opportunities, whether in the exhibit hall, during structured lunch discussions or during evening dine-arounds, give members the chance to reconnect with leaders and build new relationships.

The symposium offers continuing education credits for physicians, nursing and social workers*. For more information about the symposium, members may contact Erica Leyko at the MHA. Questions about event registration should be directed to Janice Jones at the MHA.

*For more details, please visit the online Continuing Education Accreditation Statement.

MHA Monday Report March 31, 2025

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 …

News to Know – March 31, 2025

New to Know
  • New to KnowRegistration 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 symposium, offering continuing education credits for physicians, nursing and social workers, is designed for clinical teams across the continuum of care, quality, safety and risk professionals, person and family advocates and healthcare executives. For more information about the symposium, contact Erica Leyko at the MHA. Questions about event registration should be directed to Janice Jones at the MHA.
  • 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 and co-designed programs. The award will honor one winner and up to three finalists who will be recognized at the 2026 AHA Leadership Summit in Denver. Members that are improving community health and well-being through leadership and community partnerships in Michigan are encouraged to apply. Members interested in learning more are encouraged to visit the AHA website. Those with questions may contact the AHA.

MHA Monday Report March 24, 2025

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

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 …

News to Know – March 17, 2025

New to Know
  • New to KnowRegistration 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 symposium, offering continuing education credits for physicians, nursing and social workers, is designed for clinical teams across the continuum of care, quality, safety and risk professionals, person and family advocates and healthcare executives. For more information about the symposium, contact Erica Leyko at the MHA. Questions about event registration should be directed to Janice Jones at the MHA.
  • 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. Lenise has worked with the MHA Health Policy team for the past two years and plays an integral role in MHA’s policy analysis and development work. Prior to joining the MHA, Lenise worked in U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ office. CHRT’s four-month Health Policy Fellowship connects policymakers, researchers and nonprofit professionals. Fellows learn about the intersection between health research and health policy from subject-matter experts and from each other. Since the fellowship began in 2012, more than 100 fellows have graduated.

MHA Monday Report March 10, 2025

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 …