News

Proposed federal budget cuts to Medicare and Medicaid could have severe consequences for rural hospitals, including Summit Pacific Medical Center. These programs provide critical funding that ensures access to healthcare for the most vulnerable community members in Grays Harbor County. If these cuts move forward, thousands of people in Washington could lose their coverage, making it more difficult for hospitals like Summit Pacific to provide quality care for the local community.

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell issued a news release emphasizing the harsh impact of the proposed budget cuts, noting the concern of Washington rural hospital leaders that “tossing thousands of low-income residents off Medicaid would threaten [rural hospital] finances and possibly lead to reductions in services and staff.”

Josh Martin, CEO of Summit Pacific Medical Center, agreed with Senator Cantwell and reported that “Cuts to Medicaid funding would have a ripple effect across the entire healthcare system. Hospitals will still be required to treat patients but with far less financial support, which could mean fewer doctors and nurses, longer wait times, and even potential hospital closures. Families who rely on Medicare and Medicaid, especially children covered by Washington’s Apple Health program, would face uncertainty in accessing the essential care they need.”
Senator Cantwell highlighted the urgency of this issue, explaining that the U.S. House of Representatives is currently debating legislation that could cut Medicaid and other healthcare programs by $880 billion. In Washington State alone, Medicaid funding accounts for 57% of all the state’s federal funding. Reducing these funds would create a significant shortfall, forcing the state to make difficult decisions on addressing the deficit.

Senator Cantwell’s report cited the experience of rural hospital leadership who “have learned that patients without insurance put off regular doctor visits, important prescriptions, and other preventative care measures. This inevitably leads to delayed diagnosis, advanced disease, and high-cost ED visits. Squeezing Medicaid is penny smart, dollar foolish policy, placing lives on the line.”

Summit Pacific acknowledges Senator Cantwell’s advocacy to protect rural communities’ healthcare funding. Its advancement of wellness in Grays Harbor County continues undeterred, stoked by its passion for ensuring that residents have local access to the care they need. With the potential for unpredictability in funding, Summit Pacific is committed to working with the community to ensure that support for critical healthcare services is preserved.

Community Engagement: The Importance of Advocacy

Residents of Grays Harbor County and beyond can make an impact. Community members are encouraged to contact their congressional representatives to express the importance of Medicare and Medicaid funding. Public outreach through calls, emails, and letters can help protect the healthcare resources that sustain hospitals and ensure ongoing access to medical care.

To find an elected representative and learn how to take action, visit https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials.

Protecting healthcare funding is essential to maintaining strong and resilient communities.