From AHA Legislative Bulletin, An Iowa Hospital Association E-Publication
Friday, April 24, 2026
This week, nearly two dozen Iowa hospital and health system leaders traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend the American Hospital Association Annual Meeting and meet with members of Iowa’s congressional delegation.
During congressional meetings, hospital leaders thanked lawmakers for their leadership and collaboration on the Rural Health Transformation Program. They shared comments on potential improvements to strengthen the program’s effectiveness. Leaders emphasized the importance of continued federal partnership to ensure rural hospitals can meet the evolving needs of their communities.
Hospital representatives also discussed the Medicaid state-directed payment program, urging federal policymakers to extend the “grandfathered” status for states like Iowa with approved programs beyond the current timeline. Under existing plans, states will experience reductions in directed payments starting in July 2028. Hospital leaders stressed that extending the grandfather status would help preserve hospital financial stability and protect access to care across Iowa. Advocates noted that an extension would support continuity while Congress evaluates long-term Medicaid policies, safeguard stability for hospitals and Medicaid beneficiaries, and help prevent avoidable financial distress or service reductions that could limit patient access to care.
| Iowa hospital and health system leaders in Washington, D.C., for the American Hospital Association Annual Meeting and to meet with members of Iowa’s congressional delegation. Pictured in the front row, 3rd from left is CCMH CEO, Erin Muck. |
