Study Warns Medicaid Cuts Could Drive Deaths, Hospitalizations, and Economic Fallout by 2034

A new study published in JAMA Health Forum warns that sweeping Medicaid cuts under the recently signed “One Big Beautiful Bill” could lead to widespread healthcare and economic consequences by 2034. The law, signed by President Donald Trump, includes $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts, work requirements, and stricter eligibility checks. Researchers estimate over 1,400 excess deaths and 94,000 preventable hospitalizations annually due to coverage losses. Up to 12 million people could become uninsured, driving $3.3 billion in revenue losses for safety-net providers and placing over 100 rural hospitals at high risk of closure. The study also predicts $7.6 billion in new medical debt, 302,000 job losses, and $135.3 billion in reduced economic output. In a worst-case scenario, those figures could rise significantly. Researchers warn of increased patient delays in care, nonadherence to medication, and added administrative burden on providers — particularly those serving low-income and rural populations.

16-07-2025