Mississippi lawmakers approved a $103.7 million grant program to support the state's struggling hospitals, but some advocates and lawmakers argue the funding isn't enough, Mississippi Today reported March 28.
The bill, which awaits the governor's signature, would distribute $103 million to hospitals through a hybrid funding model using American Rescue Plan Act funds, according to the report. The Mississippi Department of Health would receive $700,000 to administer the program.
Earlier this year, the Mississippi Hospital Association projected hospitals would need $230 million in additional funds to stay afloat, according to the report.
Tim Moore, the association's president, said they are appreciative of the bill's passage but the lower-than-needed funding will not solve the ongoing crisis, according to the report.
"The solution has not changed," Mr. Moore said, according to the report. "Payer issues and the burden of uncompensated care must be addressed. The Mississippi hospital system that provides care to all Mississippians costs $23 million dollars a day to operate. Any sustainable business model must generate adequate revenues to cover expenses. Hospitals are no exception."
Rep. Robert Johnson, the House Democratic leader, criticized the bill for appropriating less than half of what the hospitals were seeking, according to the report.
A Mississippi Health Department official told the outlet there is not yet a timeline for the grant program's implementation.