Six rural hospitals in Colorado could face closure if Congress approves over $600 million in Medicaid cuts proposed in the Republican-backed tax bill supported by former President Donald Trump, according to a Senate Democrats-commissioned report.
The impacted hospitals span the state—three are located on the Western Slope, one in the San Luis Valley, and two in the Eastern Plains. While the findings are based on a specific version of the evolving legislation, the final outcome could either worsen or lessen the projected impact on Colorado’s healthcare infrastructure.
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The report also raised concerns about other providers, including community mental health centers and safety-net clinics, which may be forced to reduce services or shut down locations. Although full closures aren’t expected for these clinics, advocates warn that patients will still lose critical access to care.
The House-approved bill, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, includes a range of controversial healthcare changes. It would impose work requirements for Medicaid, raise costs on the individual insurance marketplace, and penalize states that offer coverage to undocumented immigrants.
Additionally, a proposed amendment would limit states’ ability to receive enhanced federal funding through taxes on healthcare providers—a provision whose fate in the Senate remains uncertain.
If passed in its current form, the legislation could have lasting consequences for healthcare access in Colorado’s most vulnerable and remote communities.
