05/07/2026
Our CHO, Dr. Veronica Hooper, met with U.S. Senator Patty Murray to discuss the effects that proposed federal budget cuts to Medicaid, rural health programs, and more will have on the healthcare system in Washington State.
"We know what happens when access declines,” said Dr. Veronica Hooper. “We've seen this over and over, especially with primary care. Emergency visits rise, healthcare costs escalate beyond measurable amounts, and we see increased hospitalizations for preventable causes.”
We are very happy to have had Dr. Hooper share exactly what the effects of the proposed budget cuts will look like as they impact our rural communities' health. We look forward to helping Senator Murray bring these concerns back to D.C. as Congress prepares for upcoming federal budget negotiations.