As you speak with political candidates you may want to engage them on these topics. Government underfunding of health care services. This shortfall gets shifted to commercial insurers. While cost shifting is just one factor in commercial insurance rates, it is a large one. We believe it is in the best interest of all Vermonters for policy makers at the state and federal levels to help end this inequitable system of payments.
Hospitals are vital economic engines as well as care centers in Vermont.
Often, they are the largest employers in a region. We think it is important to understand what hospitals contribute to the local and state economy. Health care faces a serious manpower shortage in the coming years. Our hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies are currently working with nursing staffs that are stretched thin. The number of students choosing nursing as a career is diminishing nationally and in Vermont.