LTE: Fate of rural hospitals justifies Medicaid expansion
Bozeman Daily Chronicle
I recently watched a news report about rural hospitals which has me rethinking my tribal pre-disposition to be opposed to Gov. Steve Bullock’s pitch to fund Medicaid expansion. (You would be correct if you think I am politically conservative).
I think his primary argument is at least partially to preserve rural Montana hospitals. The TV report was regarding Tonopah, Nevada, closing the hospital there, and leaving residents with options that are, literally hours away, much like our communities here. With Tonopah, the closest hospital is 120 miles away, in another small town across the state line. The results are sobering, to say the least. Unnecessary deaths, unnecessary negative health impact because care was not immediately available. My personal association with Tonopah gives me a clear sympathy for folks there, as I spent a good part of the 90s working with the county government. And a personal, lifesaving event here in Bozeman brought home how important these services are, and how lucky we in Bozeman are to have the Deaconess group here.
The reflection on the report also demonstrated to me how important listening to those we disagree with has become. Our screaming at each other (figuratively) through the letters to the editor, or looking for a gotcha position in the letters or social media may provide a momentary warm feeling, but doesn’t solve any problems, only exacerbates the divisions.
My final comment: I hope for the positive result for our fellow Montanans that all legislators will thoughtfully consider extending the Medicaid expansions.
Bill Meyers, Bozeman