January 9, 2024

Governor Hochul’s State of the State address notes that “hospitals in New York are struggling financially more than in the rest of the U.S—42% of hospital facilities in New York had an operating deficit in 2021.” That figure rose to 63% in 2022. Yet the Governor offers no significant initiatives to solve this urgent and worsening crisis. The root cause is that New York’s Medicaid program funds hospitals 30% less than the actual cost of delivering care. It’s no wonder that so many hospitals are in deep financial trouble and critical health indicators—such as maternal and infant health outcomes—are worsening, especially in low-income communities. The State budget must take real steps to fix this situation and ensure Medicaid equity, now.

George Gresham, President, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East
Kenneth E. Raske, President, Greater New York Hospital Association