3 Hospitals Closing? McLaren, Ascension and U of M Locations at Risk

As Americans continue to navigate the lasting financial impact of the pandemic, inflation and new tariffs have added pressure to an already strained economy. Across the country, including here in Michigan, more people are struggling to afford basic necessities. The rising cost of used vehicles is just one example — driven up by increased demand, while new car sales decline as consumers avoid expensive, unwanted features and add-ons.

READ MORE: Over 1/3 of Michiganders will Lose their Health Insurance--Will You?

Unfortunately, these financial challenges go beyond the dealership lot. Cuts in federal funding are threatening essential programs like Medicaid and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which were designed to support Americans in need — from working individuals who can't make ends meet to people living with disabilities. And in Michigan, these cuts could be devastating.

Michigan Counties at Highest Risk

Wayne County, the state's most populous, currently has 41% of its residents on Medicaid assistance. But two other counties are right behind — Genesee and Oscoda, where 35% of residents rely on Medicaid for health care. That means over one-third of people in those communities may be directly impacted by proposed federal budget reductions.

Hospitals in Crisis

Luckily, none of the main sites for McLaren, Ascension or U of M hospitals in Mid-Michigan are currently at risk. Although, health care professionals and administrators warn of the consequences, three Michigan hospitals are now in danger of shutting down due to anticipated losses in federal support:

• McLaren Central Michigan in Mount Pleasant

• University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Carson City Hospital

• Ascension Borgess-Lee Hospital in Dowagiac

Get our free mobile app

If these closures happen, thousands of Michiganders could lose access to local care — whether they’re insured or not.

READ MORE: McLaren Alerts 743,000 Patients after Cyberattack Breach

These facilities serve rural and underserved populations, where alternatives may be an hour or more away. The effects of such closures would ripple across communities, affecting emergency care, chronic illness management, and overall public health.

What’s at Stake

Without proper intervention or continued funding, Michigan’s most vulnerable populations could find themselves without the safety nets that have been in place for decades. The situation calls for urgent attention and action before lives — and livelihoods — are put further at risk.