State faces huge fallout from Medicaid cuts

Astria Health in Toppenish, Washington, warned that recent Medicaid cuts could force the hospital to close, potentially creating a medical desert for local residents. The cuts, included in a megabill signed by President Trump, are expected to result in a $3 billion to $5 billion annual loss in federal Medicaid funding for the state. Nearly 2 million Washington residents, including over 850,000 children, rely on the Medicaid program known as Apple Health. Governor Bob Ferguson emphasized that the cuts could push the state's uninsured rate above 10%, reversing years of progress in health coverage. Both Republican members of Washington's congressional delegation voted for the cuts, viewing them as necessary reforms.

However, advocates warn that the reductions will harm vulnerable populations and rural healthcare systems. The hospital's president stated that no health system can continue reallocating funds without serious consequences. The loss of funding could lead to drastic changes in services and possibly hospital closures throughout the state.