In southern Colorado's San Luis Valley, local leaders express concern over potential legislative cuts to Medicaid, which is crucial for rural health care. With 70 percent of rural hospitals in financial distress, the proposed budget changes could significantly impact vital services. San Luis Valley Health, serving 50,000 residents, relies heavily on Medicaid, which constitutes roughly one-third of its annual $140 million budget. Community members worry that cuts could force hospitals to make severe reductions in services, worsening already limited access to healthcare, particularly for low-income families and individuals with disabilities.
I'm trying to be worried and optimistic. The numbers out of the bill about deep Medicaid cuts were incredibly frightening, because Medicaid is such a vital program to rural health care.
It will be devastating to us. Our operating margin is razor thin, so federal cuts to Medicaid could force difficult cuts.
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