While recent federal legislation to cut Medicaid nationwide dominated headlines, its profound implications for hospice and end-of-life care have received far less attention. With Congress now in its August recess, this presents a crucial window for constituents to engage directly with their federal representatives and advocate for vulnerable patients and caregivers.

The hidden impact on healthcare access

Many Americans may not fully grasp how these funding cuts will affect them, partly because Medicaid programs operate under different names across states. The consequences, however, will be felt nationwide and are staggering in scope.

By the numbers, these cuts could result in:

● 7.6 million Americans losing health insurance by 2034

● Negative impact on care for the remaining 71 million Medicare beneficiaries

● 1 in 4 nursing homes potentially forced to close

● 100,000 additional hospitalizations annually

● 1.6 million people delaying necessary medical care

● 55 rural hospitals facing immediate closure, with another 380 independent rural facilities at serious risk

The ripple effects extend beyond those who directly rely on Medicaid. Reduced hospital and nursing facility payments across most states will create a lower standard of care for everyone, as the healthcare system grapples with diminished capacity, reduced staffing, and limited availability.

A legislative threat to end-of-life choice

When Congress reconvenes in September, lawmakers will face a tight deadline to prevent a government shutdown. Among the contentious funding bills under consideration is the House Financial Services and General Government Appropriations bill, which contains a troubling provision.

Section 819 of this bill would not only overturn the District of Columbia’s Death with Dignity law but also prevent the D.C. City Council from adopting similar measures in the future. Protecting patient autonomy and end-of-life choice requires ensuring this provision is removed from the House bill and that the Senate maintains D.C.’s existing law in its own appropriations legislation.

Four ways to make your voice heard

The August recess provides an unprecedented opportunity for constituents to influence their representatives on these critical issues. Here’s how you can take action:

1. Digital Advocacy Start with the simplest approach — send an email through our streamlined online form to communicate your concerns directly to your representatives.

2. Attend Public Events Research your representatives’ schedules for town halls and community events during the recess. These gatherings offer valuable face-to-face opportunities to share concerns about healthcare funding cuts and express support for D.C.’s Death with Dignity law. When attending, respectfully urge your representative to oppose Section 819 of the House Financial Services and General Government Appropriations bill.

3. Schedule Direct Meetings Arrange meetings through your representatives’ state or district offices — either individually or as part of a small community group. These 15-30 minute sessions should maintain a cordial, respectful tone while providing ample opportunity for dialogue and addressing any questions from congressional members or their staff.

4. Make Strategic Phone Calls Contact representatives’ Washington D.C. offices directly by calling the main congressional switchboard at (202) 225-3121. Leave clear messages urging protection for hospitals, nursing homes, patients, and caregivers against increased costs and facility closures, while specifically opposing provisions that would repeal D.C.’s Death with Dignity law.

Now is the time

The coming weeks represent a pivotal moment for healthcare advocacy. As Congress prepares to tackle funding decisions that will shape healthcare access for millions of Americans, constituent voices can make a meaningful difference in protecting vulnerable patients and preserving end-of-life care options.

The intersection of healthcare funding and end-of-life choice underscores how legislative decisions affect the most personal aspects of medical care. By engaging during this recess period, advocates can help ensure that healthcare policy reflects the values, priorities, and beliefs of the communities it serves.

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