[May CHI Mtg] Federal and State Funding, Potential Impact of Medicaid Cuts

With many possible changes to federal and state funding and policies ahead of us, the Okanogan CHI convened members to discuss the impact (and potential impact) of these changes on community health. Local hospitals shared a deep dive about the potential impact of Medicaid cuts and how the CHI could best contribute to planning and advocacy.

Here are a few media pieces about how state and federal funding may impact Okanogan County and other rural communities:

• "Okanogan County Hospitals Brace for Potential Medicaid Cuts"

•  "Rural Head Start Programs Face Uncertainties in Okanogan County"

•   "Federal and State Cuts Threaten Washington Early-Learning Programs"
  

The CHI is stepping into a new meeting structure as we center around the local impact of federal and state funding and policy changes the next few months. Here are the outcomes we're heading toward each month:

ONGOING MEETING OUTCOMES:

• Clear talking points on impacts in Okanogan County.

• Contributions to public education and sense-making.

• Shared quantitative and qualitative data.

• Proactive planning and learning spaces 

• Regular identification of opportunities for action.

• Advocacy opportunities with legislators and leaders.