Guyer Featured on CNN Discussing Impacts of OBBBA for Rural Hospitals, Medicaid Users

Manatt Health Senior Managing Director was featured on CNN discussing the significant consequences for individuals and the health care system from the recently passed “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA).

Approximately 5 million people are estimated to lose coverage due to new work reporting requirements that add complex paperwork, which many eligible individuals may struggle to complete. Guyer said states have previously attempted to implement work requirements in the past, resulting in many people being kicked off their health insurance because of issues navigating the process.

Rural hospitals, already financially vulnerable with low or negative profit margins, will be hit hard by the bill’s Medicaid cuts, Guyer said. This may lead to closures or reduction of critical services like labor and delivery units, as Medicaid covers about half of rural births.

“As we pull $1 trillion out of that program, there's no way that we're going to be able to protect rural hospitals,” Guyer said. “Hospitals, providers and people across the country are going to be hit by these changes.”

Additionally, individuals losing Medicaid coverage will find it difficult to obtain alternative insurance because the bill restricts access to marketplaces, increasing the number of uninsured and forcing many to forgo necessary medical care.

“We do see people die prematurely,” Guyer said. “They don't get those cancer screenings. They don't get the treatment they need. There will be very real consequences for Americans across the country.”

Watch the full CNN clip .