1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

The proposed "One Big Beautiful Bill" containing nearly $700 billion in Medicaid cuts would have devastating consequences for rural hospitals across the nation. Researchers warn that over 300 financially struggling rural hospitals would be pushed toward closure, service reductions, or ending inpatient care if these cuts take effect. Many rural communities already face limited access to healthcare, with hospitals operating on razor-thin margins. Diminished Medicaid reimbursements would further erode their ability to stay open and maintain vital services like labor and delivery, mental health care, and emergency rooms. Rural Americans disproportionately rely on Medicaid, with nearly 50% of rural births covered by the program. Approving these draconian cuts would trigger widespread rural hospital closures, leaving millions without nearby access to essential healthcare. For the well-being of rural communities nationwide, the Medicaid cuts in the "One Big Beautiful Bill" must be reconsidered to prevent a public health crisis.