Medicaid Cuts Threaten Rural North Carolina: Governor's Urgent Warning

Medicaid Cuts Threaten Rural North Carolina Hospitals, Warns Gov. Stein North Carolina Governor Josh Stein recently issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of proposed Medicaid cuts. He highlighted the substantial economic contribution of Medicaid to the state, emphasizing that cuts would disproportionately impact rural areas. Stein stated, "Medicaid covers 3 million North Carolinians and contributes $30 billion to our state's economy." He further explained that many rural hospitals rely heavily on Medicaid funding, and cuts would leave them struggling to stay afloat. The Governor's concern is particularly acute given that a significant portion of Medicaid recipients in North Carolina reside in rural counties. "More than one out of every three North Carolinians covered by Medicaid live in rural counties," Stein noted. This means that proposed cuts would place a significant strain on these already vulnerable healthcare facilities. The Governor's urgent call to action underscores the critical need for lawmakers to consider the far-reaching consequences of these potential cuts, particularly for the most vulnerable populations in the state. The situation highlights the importance of bipartisan cooperation to protect access to healthcare for all.