How Communities Recover from Urban Hospital Closures

Recently, more hospitals have been closing than opening in urban communities, leaving residents with no choice but to find care in other places. Hospital closures are linked to financial struggle prior to closure, declining patient volumes, poor management, or competing ownership interests. Closures negative impact quality of and access to care, with community members needing to travel long distances or come up with creative solutions to get care that used to be readily accessible. In all cases of closure, access has to switch to different settings and providers, with nearby hospitals increasing capacity and standalone emergency departments becoming more common. Our Health Equity advocates for accessible and affordable healthcare for all Americans, no matter where they live. Read more here.