Overview

• Community Hospital in McCook confirmed this week it will wind down services at its Curtis Medical Center after more than 30 years, blaming anticipated Medicaid funding reductions.
• The One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed the House and Senate on July 3 and awaits President Trump’s signature, enacting nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts over ten years.
• A UNC Cecil G. Sheps Center analysis warns that over 300 rural hospitals could also close if federal cuts are fully implemented without stronger state-level support.
• Nebraska Republicans, including Rep. Adrian Smith who voted for the bill, are facing criticism from local leaders and constituents losing vital health services.
• Rural health groups say the bill’s $50 billion rural hospital fund will fall short of covering reimbursement shortfalls, threatening emergency and primary care in isolated communities.