In our rural hospitals, Medicaid pays for 26 percent of all Emergency Room visits, 33 percent of all births, 43 percent of all behavioral health services, and 44 percent of all services provided to minor patients. These cuts pose very severe threats to Nebraska patients and hospitals, particularly in rural communities.

In Nebraska, 54 percent of rural, independent Critical Access Hospitals are operating at a loss. The average operating margin was only 1.4 percent for rural hospitals, well below a sustainable operating margin.  These tough financial conditions have forced over 20 percent of Nebraska hospitals to reduce or eliminate services in the last two years – vital services like labor and delivery and behavioral health. 

Rural hospitals and patients need meaningful support from lawmakers. Wherever a patient lives in Nebraska, whatever their financial status, they deserve access to quality care. 

Please ask your representatives to oppose cuts to health care.