State and Federal Engagement Needed Now to Protect Access to Hospital Care in California

This joint state-federal alert is seeking your attention and action on two issues: 

  • Support for one-time state funding to stabilize hospitals and long-term increases in Medi-Cal reimbursements 
  • Support for a federal bill to delay Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) cuts 

Support Needed for One-Time State Funding Request, Increases in Medi-Cal Reimbursements 

ACTION NEEDED

CHA is asking hospital leaders to send a letter to the state senator and Assembly member who represent your hospital to voice your support for a one-time request for funds to stabilize distressed hospitals, as well as increases in Medi-Cal reimbursements. Share your unique story about the challenges created by financial distress, and the impact on the community you serve should a neighboring hospital be forced to reduce services. Legislators must understand the unique challenges in their communities and the importance of protecting access to patient care. This letter framework provides a high-level guide to the messages you should include in your letter. 

TIMING

Please send your letters by May 10 and send copies to Mark Farouk at mfarouk@calhospital.org. 


Urge U.S. Representatives to Delay Upcoming Medicaid DSH Cuts 

ACTION NEEDED

CHA is asking for your help to support passage of a bill that would delay planned Medicaid DSH cuts and significantly reduce resources to California hospitals. This comes at a time when hospitals cannot withstand the additional reductions being considered in House subcommittees. 

CHA is asking hospital leaders to call or email your U.S. representative to ask them to: 

  • Co-sponsor the Supporting Safety Net Hospitals Act (H.R. 2665), legislation to delay the Medicaid DSH cuts that are scheduled for Oct. 1. 
  • Sign a letter to the leadership of the House of Representatives calling for urgent action on the legislation.

TIMING

Please call or email your representative by May 11.

RESOURCE