Hospital leaders from across Minnesota joined the Minnesota Hospital Association this week to describe the pressures facing hospitals and health systems and to call for action to protect access to care.
Winona Health President and CEO Rachelle Schultz was among the leaders who spoke, focusing on the strain facing rural health care and communities like Winona.
Schultz said patients continue to seek care even when insurance coverage goes away, but many arrive later and in worse condition after going without preventive care, leaving emergency departments busier than ever.
The leaders said keeping local care available matters to the people and communities who rely on it, and that steps are needed to make sure those services remain in place.
