To: Michigan legislators and Department of Health and Human Services
Fully Fund Rural Hospitals in Michigan!
Congress passed legislation to distribute $10 billion to rural hospitals in every state—but Michigan’s rural hospitals aren’t getting full access to the funds.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is changing the definition of a rural hospital, leading other hospitals to apply for grants and causing concern among rural communities and healthcare providers.
Rural hospitals provide lifesaving care for communities—often acting as the closest emergency center for miles, providing preventative care that can’t be easily accessed elsewhere, and helping aging populations manage chronic conditions.
Michigan lawmakers should listen to the concerns of healthcare workers and ensure that rural hospitals are FULLY funded! Sign the petition now.
Why is this important?
Sturgis Hospital was Michigan’s first designated rural emergency hospital, and its doors were just shuttered in June due to lack of funding. And Sturgis isn’t alone—five rural hospitals have closed in Michigan since 2005.
These facilities are often the only places to seek medical care for miles, and as Michigan's population ages, rural communities are being wholly abandoned.
Michigan leaders must ensure that ALL rural hospitals in our state are fully funded to guarantee that people can easily access lifesaving care!