Medicaid, SNAP cuts could lead to 1 million jobs lost in 2026: report
Read Article: Healthcare Dive
Article Summary: Proposed Medicaid and SNAP funding cuts could cause significant financial strain on healthcare providers, with 477,000 healthcare jobs at risk in 2026. Hospitals, nursing homes, and physician offices could face budget cuts, staffing reductions, and potential closures, especially in rural areas. The cuts could also increase uncompensated care and emergency room demand, placing further pressure on already strained healthcare systems.
The Risk:
Healthcare Workforce Reductions & Facility Closures: Proposed Medicaid and SNAP cuts could result in 477,000 healthcare job losses, particularly in rural areas where facilities heavily rely on Medicaid funding. This could force hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities to reduce staff, limit services, or even close, reducing access to care, especially in underserved communities.
Financial Pressure and Increase in Uncompensated Care: With reduced Medicaid reimbursements, healthcare providers may face budget cuts, service reductions, and financial pressure. This could lead to more patients being unable to afford care, increasing uncompensated care, and straining already limited resources, especially in emergency departments.