Colorado Health Committee discusses Senate Bill 78 to protect rural hospitals

The Colorado House Health & Human Services Committee convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss key legislative measures aimed at supporting rural healthcare facilities. The meeting featured testimony from healthcare officials, including Austin Wozniak, the Health System Value Analysis Unit Manager at the Department of Healthcare Policy and Financing, who addressed questions regarding the effectiveness of current programs.

One significant topic was the impact of a staffing program designed to assist rural hospitals. Mr. Stansbury reported that this initiative has successfully reduced agency staffing costs by approximately 20% at his hospital, highlighting the program's potential to alleviate financial pressures on rural healthcare providers. The committee acknowledged the cautious approach taken by rural hospitals, which often prioritize risk management in their operations.

The meeting also focused on Senate Bill 78, which aims to prevent the closure of rural hospitals, a critical issue given that 43 of Colorado's 105 hospitals are located in rural or frontier areas. Representative Lukens emphasized the importance of this legislation, noting that the closure of even one hospital could force patients to travel significant distances—up to 60 miles—for healthcare services.

The committee unanimously voted in favor of advancing Senate Bill 78 to the Committee of the Whole, reflecting strong bipartisan support for measures that seek to enhance healthcare access in rural communities. The meeting concluded with a call for continued efforts to secure sponsorship for upcoming legislative sessions, underscoring the ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes for all Coloradans.