Nebraska's hospitals are facing challenging headwinds and uncertain futures that threaten their ability to provide care, especially in rural communities. Rising costs, coverage losses tied to Medicaid and commercial insurance changes, and growing regulatory burdens are straining providers. In the most recent survey of NHA members, 55% of Nebraska hospitals described their financial conditions as “challenging” or “very challenging”, and 32% reported negative operating margins.

Recent federal and state actions have accelerated this strain. The passage of HR 1, the expiration of Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, attacks on 340B, and increased regulatory burdens like site-neutral payment policies all pose major threats to Nebraska hospitals. And hospitals are being increasingly targeted in policy debates, despite already absorbing cuts.

Without action, Nebraskans risk losing access to essential health care services. Contact your state and federal policymakers and ask them to protect Medicaid reimbursements, preserve the 340B program, and ensure adequate funding for rural hospitals.