Congress is currently advancing the “Big Beautiful Bill,” a sweeping federal spending package that includes deep cuts to critical safety net programs, including Medicaid and SNAP food assistance. While promoted as a measure to reduce the national deficit, the bill comes at a severe cost to those who can least afford it.

At Affinia Healthcare, we are deeply concerned about the devastating impact this legislation will have on our patients and the communities we serve:

The proposed work requirements and eligibility restrictions will push hundreds of thousands of low-income individuals and families off the Medicaid rolls. Many working individuals stand to lose their Medicaid coverage, not because they are ineligible, but because of excessive paperwork, burdensome verification requirements, and administrative red tape. These are patients with chronic conditions, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and working parents. Loss of Medicaid coverage means fewer preventive visits, delayed care, and worsening health outcomes.

The bill proposes stricter eligibility rules and benefit reductions for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. This threatens food access for millions of families, children, and seniors, particularly in areas already experiencing food insecurity.

The ripple effects will be felt hardest in rural America, where critical access hospitals, small clinics, and community health centers rely on Medicaid reimbursements to keep their doors open. Without this funding, closures are imminent, increasing healthcare deserts and forcing patients to travel long distances or go without care altogether.

Now is the time to raise our collective voice. Community Health Centers like ours are on the front lines of care for the uninsured, underinsured, and underserved. We urge you to stay informed, advocate for patients, and contact your elected officials to oppose harmful provisions in this bill.