Denver Hospital Bankrupted by Migrant Healthcare Costs

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• Denver Health, the city's main public hospital, is facing a financial crisis due to unpaid medical treatments worth $136 million.
• Approximately 8,000 migrants from Central America have made around 20,000 visits to the hospital, contributing to the financial strain.
• The hospital suffered a $35 million loss in 2022, despite a $20 million state-funded cash injection.

The Denver Health hospital system is experiencing severe financial difficulties as a result of providing unpaid medical care valued at $136 million.

This situation has been exacerbated by the influx of migrants, primarily from Central America, who have been unable to pay for their treatments. The hospital recorded a loss of $2 million in 2022, which would have been more significant without a $20 million contribution from the state.

In 2022, the hospital faced a substantial loss of $35 million. Hospital executives have warned of potential dire consequences if the financial situation does not improve. The increased costs are directly linked to the large number of immigrants arriving in Denver. Of the 36,000 migrants who have reached the city, 18,000 have chosen to stay.

The hospital's CEO, Donna Lynne, highlighted that 8,000 of these migrants accounted for about 20,000 visits for various services, including dental emergencies, mental health counseling, and childbirth. Dr. Taylor McCormick, from Denver Health, noted that many of these patients lack medical insurance, burdening the hospital with the cost of their care.

Despite some of the costs being covered by Medicaid, a large portion of the unpaid bills, amounting to $100 million, were incurred by Denver residents, not migrants. The hospital is facing challenges in managing its costs, leading to the reduction of services, especially in mental health and substance abuse.

Denver Health is yet to finalize its financial figures for 2023, but executives anticipate the need for additional support to maintain operations. A proposed bill by State Rep. Judy Amabile could provide Denver Health with an annual financial support of $5 million from Colorado. Denver's Mayor Mike Johnston is also seeking congressional action to assist the city in managing the migrant situation, estimating that migrant aid could cost the city $180 million this year.

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