NCHA Statement on the Governor’s Medical Debt Announcement

Raleigh, NC – July 1, 2024 — North Carolina hospitals and health systems are committed to the care and well-being of all North Carolinians, and we recognize that medical debt is a concern for many. That is why hospitals focus every day on providing safe, high-quality care to all, regardless of their ability to pay.  

NCHA and its members need more time to understand what is contained in the preprint submitted to U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), which has not yet been approved. We look forward to CMS’ comments. We believe that the best solutions are always inclusive and transparent, with involvement by all stakeholders, including employers, payors and providers.  

For over a decade, North Carolina hospitals advocated for Medicaid expansion. We agreed to pay the non-federal share of the cost of expansion, which is only possible through the Healthcare Access and Stabilization Program (HASP). 

About NCHA 

Founded in 1918, North Carolina Healthcare Association (NCHA) is the united voice of the North Carolina healthcare community. Representing more than 130 hospitals, health systems, physician groups and other healthcare organizations, NCHA works with our members to improve the health of North Carolina communities by advocating for sound public policies and collaborative partnerships and by providing insights, services, support, and education to expand access to high quality, efficient, affordable, and integrated health care for all North Carolinians.