As healthcare leaders of urban health systems dedicated to serving vulnerable populations, we commend President Trump for his unwavering commitment to safeguarding Medicare and Medicaid. His support for America’s working families, seniors, and veterans is crucial, and we appreciate his efforts in this regard. However, we also express our deep concerns about the potential impact of proposed changes to Medicaid funding on safety-net hospitals.
The House of Representatives passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which maintains current payments and financing for state Medicaid programs that are vital for safety-net hospitals. Unfortunately, the Senate’s draft reconciliation bill includes provisions that would significantly reduce payment rates to these hospitals, jeopardizing their ability to provide essential care to low-income patients and communities.
For hospitals like Harris Health in Southeast Texas and MetroHealth in Ohio, the proposed Medicaid cuts could have devastating consequences. Harris Health, for example, stands to lose over $400 million in annual revenue, putting essential services at risk. Similarly, MetroHealth, with its Level 1 trauma center and burn center, serves many underinsured and uninsured patients who rely on charity care.
The Front Line Hospital Alliance, a coalition of safety-net hospitals, advocates for targeted investments to support at-risk hospitals and enhance care delivery. Rather than across-the-board cuts, we believe that strategic investments in innovative care models can improve outcomes and reduce costs for patients and taxpayers. These hospitals are already pioneering patient-centered approaches to care with limited resources.
We urge President Trump and Congress to reject the Senate’s proposed Medicaid cuts and instead reinforce the protections outlined in the House bill. Stable and adequate funding is essential for safety-net hospitals to continue their critical work serving vulnerable populations. Additionally, we call for collaboration on designing a new care model that focuses on chronic disease prevention and management, keeping patients healthy and out of emergency departments.
We invite President Trump to visit our hospitals and witness the impactful work being done to improve patient outcomes. By working together, we can build a healthier future for all Americans while ensuring that the most vulnerable receive the care they need. The Front Line Hospital Alliance is committed to partnering with the administration and Congress to achieve these goals.
Esmaeil Porsa, M.D., M.B.A., President and CEO of Harris Health in Texas, and Christine Alexander, M.D., President and CEO of the MetroHealth System in Ohio, represent the Front Line Hospital Alliance. Their advocacy for safety-net hospitals underscores the importance of preserving and strengthening these institutions to support underserved communities and promote health equity.
