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 radio appearance discussing potential federal Medicaid funding cuts.
Michigan Public aired a story March 6 following the broad bi-partisan passage of Senate Bills 94 and 95 by the full chamber. Senate Bill 94 would safeguard the 340B program, ensuring cost savings and preserves access to affordable healthcare services in both urban and rural Michigan communities. Further, this legislation adds first of its kind drug manufacturer transparency requirements, making Michigan’s legislation the strongest in the nation.
Elizabeth Kutter, senior director, government and political affairs, MHA, was interviewed by Michigan Public for the story.
“You have to be an entity that proves their eligibility in the program, which by default means that you are serving patients who are extremely vulnerable,” said Kutter. “You’re serving kids. You’re serving cancer patients. You’re serving people who, if your hospital closes or if healthcare access becomes limited, suddenly you’re seeing a very serious hospital desert for patients.”
Gongwer and MIRS also covered the passage of the bills.
In addition, Crain’s Detroit Business published an article March 3 looking at the impact of potential tariffs on a variety of Michigan industries, including healthcare. MHA CEO Brian Peters is quoted in the story addressing the impact to hospitals.
“Implementing tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China without exceptions for medications and medical supplies could jeopardize the availability and further increase the prices of already-expensive vital medications and health care devices Michigan hospitals need to provide appropriate patient care,” said Peters. “Tariffs will particularly exacerbate existing pharmaceutical shortages. China is responsible for providing a significant number of cardiac and oncology drugs, as well as active pharmaceutical ingredients needed to produce prescription drugs domestically. Many healthcare supplies are also produced in China and the United States does not have existing capacity to meet an increased demand for product.”
Peters also appeared on WJR 760AM March 3 to discuss the impact of potential federal Medicaid funding cuts on Michigan hospitals.
Members with any questions regarding media requests should contact John Karasinski at the MHA.
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.
