Proposed Medicaid cuts are raising urgent concerns for Catholic sisters and the organizations that support them. If Congress moves forward with plans to cut Medicaid spending by more than $800 billion over the next decade, more than 13,000 men and women religious could lose their health insurance.
The financial impact would be significant: with the average cost of skilled care now at $90,761 per year, losing Medicaid could cost religious congregations almost $200 million annually in new health care expenses.
“This will be a game changer if this happens,” said St. Joseph Sr. Mary Pelligrino, senior vice president at Plante Moran Realpoint and former president of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious. “People are really on pins and needles about this.”
Surveys show that most congregations are already underfunded for retirement needs, making the potential loss of Medicaid even more concerning.
With voices like Sister Mary Pelligrino’s featured in national media, this article underscores the importance of thoughtful financial stewardship and collaboration. Faith-based leaders can benefit from thoughtful planning and collaboration to navigate policy changes and support long-term sustainability.
Read the full article on Global Sisters Report’s website.
