Government Healthcare Policy, Business and Technology

Congress Won't Act; Now Community Health Centers Weigh Closures

Stateline: Unless Congress provides funding before the end of the year, many of the nation’s 9,800 community health clinics will face service cuts or closure — potentially crippling a vital part of the health system that provides care in poor and underserved communities across every state.

And the fallout could mean the loss of more than 160,000 jobs and a hit to state economies of more than $15 billion as staff cutbacks and layoffs ripple through the country. California alone could lose up to 15,841 jobs and nearly $1.7 billion next year.

Congress’ inaction on funding community health centers comes just as its Republican leadership and the Trump administration continue their attacks on the Affordable Care Act, which are expected to result in higher health care costs for states, fewer people insured and rising premiums for many of those who are.

Read article