Nassau Standard

Members of the New York State Legislature, along with workers and leaders from Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC), gathered in Albany to advocate for essential funding in the 2025-2026 state budget. They called on Governor Kathy Hochul and legislative leaders to address what they described as a failure to provide financial support for NUMC, Nassau County's only safety net hospital and Level One Trauma Center.

NUMC serves a significant portion of vulnerable residents, with over 80% of its patients relying on Medicaid, Medicare, or lacking insurance. Despite its critical role, NUMC has not received state aid or distressed hospital funds for two years. This situation persists even after New York State awarded a Medicaid waiver distributing $2.2 billion over four years to other safety net hospitals but excluding NUMC.

The hospital's leadership has implemented financial reforms that have reduced its operating deficit by over $100 million. However, without state funding, the hospital's ability to continue providing care is at risk.

Senator Steve Rhoads emphasized the importance of NUMC as "a critical lifeline" for Nassau County's vulnerable populations. He criticized the lack of state funding since 2019 despite similar hospitals receiving support elsewhere in New York.

Megan Ryan, NHCC President and CEO, stated that it is unacceptable for NUMC to receive no state grants while other hospitals benefit from increased budgets. She urged fair treatment rather than additional funding beyond historical allocations.

Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick highlighted the potential consequences if NUMC does not receive dedicated funding in the upcoming budget: "Without a firm financial commitment, NUMC is at risk of collapse."

Assemblyman Ed Ra expressed his commitment to advocating for NUMC during final budget negotiations. Assemblyman John Mikulin reiterated the hospital's vital role in healthcare access for Nassau County residents.

Assemblyman Ari Brown thanked Senator Rhoads for raising awareness about this issue and urged state intervention to ensure NUMC can continue its work.

The full press conference can be viewed on Senator Rhoads’ Facebook page.