Reps. Stephens, Deeter Introduce Healthier Rural Hospitals Act

COLUMBUS - State Representatives Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill) and Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk) recently introduced the Healthier Rural Hospitals Act. This legislation will establish a two-year program under which hospitals in small counties will receive increased Medicaid managed care organization (MCO) reimbursement payments.

"Many rural Ohio residents struggle with their health. Unfortunately, so do the financials of the hospitals that serve them," noted Representative Stephens. "The Healthier Rural Hospitals Act levels the playing field to give hospitals and the residents who depend on them the resources they need to provide quality care."

"Rural hospitals are more than healthcare facilities - they are lifelines for our communities. When a hospital struggles financially, families lose access to care, jobs are threatened, and entire regions feel the impact," said Representative Deeter. "This legislation recognizes the unique challenges facing small, rural counties and helps ensure hospitals can keep their doors open and continue serving patients close to home. Strengthening rural healthcare means stronger communities across Ohio."

The Healthier Rural Hospitals Act will set a floor for Medicaid MCO reimbursement rates for counties with populations under 100,000 that rank highest in the following factors:

• Age-adjusted rate of cancer deaths
• Percentage of population at or below 150% of the federal poverty level
• Age-adjusted rate of chronic lower respiratory disease
• Age-adjusted rate of death from stroke
• Age-adjusted rate of unintentional drug overdose death

The bill will guarantee that hospitals in counties ranked 1-10 in these metrics receive at least 150% of the statewide Medicaid MCO average reimbursement rate. Hospitals in counties ranked 11-20 will be guaranteed at least 125% of the statewide MCO average rate. Currently, many providers in these areas are paid far below the MCO statewide average.

House Bill 675 awaits a committee assignment.