A group of state legislative leaders, hospital representatives, and healthcare advocates in Rochester, New York, have urged Governor Kathy Hochul to increase funding for the Medicaid Health Insurance program and safety net hospitals. They highlighted that nearly a third of Monroe County residents depend on Medicaid, but state funding falls 30% short of actual care costs. This shortfall affects many hospitals, including the University of Rochester Medical Center’s Strong Memorial Hospital.
The funding deficit has led to overcrowding and bed shortages in Rochester’s hospitals and nursing homes. The group is part of a larger movement in New York advocating for increased Medicaid funding. Last week, faith leaders rallied at the Capitol, with over 200 signing a letter to the Governor. Last month, most Democratic legislators in New York pledged their support for full Medicaid funding.
In January, Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA) President Ken Raske and 1199SEIU President George Gresham supported legislation to increase the Medicaid reimbursement rate. Tracey Harrison, 1199SEIU Vice-President for Rochester/Corning, noted that the funding gap contributes to health disparities and puts patients at risk.