Why Washington faces huge fallout from the Medicaid cuts in Trumps megabill

Astria Health's Toppenish hospital warns it may close due to Medicaid funding cuts passed by Congress, which threaten healthcare access for local communities. Hospital officials caution that without the federal support, they may have to consolidate services or shut down entirely, creating a medical desert. Nearly 2 million Washington residents are enrolled in Medicaid, indicating the extensive reach of the program. Governor Bob Ferguson stated the cuts could push the uninsured rate into double digits, reversing years of progress in healthcare access. The Republican-led Congress argues the changes will eliminate fraud and ensure long-term sustainability of Medicaid.

Critics, however, fear that the cuts will negatively impact low-income residents who rely on the program for vital healthcare. Washington could lose up to $5 billion annually in federal funding over the next decade, exacerbating the situation for hospitals and patients alike. The potential closure of the Toppenish hospital underscores the urgent need for a sustainable healthcare funding model.