More than half of rural hospitals in New York are at risk of closing due to severe financial strain, according to the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform. The policy group reported that 29 of the state’s 50 rural hospitals — or 58% — are in jeopardy, with 18 facing immediate risk.
The situation has worsened following the recent GOP tax cut and spending bill signed by President Trump, which slashes federal Medicaid funding. Hospital leaders warn this could devastate rural care and wipe out essential services. A $50 billion national fund was included to help, but many say it’s not nearly enough.
Healthcare officials across upstate New York say without urgent financial intervention, hospital closures could trigger widespread health and economic crises in vulnerable communities.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].