Federal cuts to Medicaid, the loss of Affordable Care Act subsidies, and inflation across the United States have prompted Long Island community health centers to demand a greater healthcare budget. Operators of these centers offer healthcare to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. Since these cuts will likely cause many New Yorkers to lose their health insurance, there is an increased need for funding from the state to ensure centers can continue providing comprehensive care. With these inevitable changes on the horizon, Long Island remains committed to advocating for all its residents through means of collaboration. 

Who is Taking Action?

With such changes in action and on the horizon, Harmony Healthcare Long Island, Sun River Health, Long Island Select Healthcare, and other centers across New York State are requesting $300 million in funding. The state’s upcoming budget decision will be finalized by April 1st of this year. 

Putting those at risk of losing insurance at the forefront of this issue is the primary motivator of all Long Island healthcare center operators. Knowing this issue will impact Long Islanders is what prompts a people-first mentality. Specifically, the president and CEO of Community Health Care Association of New York State, Rose Duhan, emphasizes that “Lawmakers have an opportunity right now to turn words into action by making a transformational $300 million investment in community health centers in this year’s budget.”

How Many Long Islanders Will be Affected?

In 2025, nearly 680,000 residents of Nassau and Suffolk counties relied on Medicaid for their healthcare. In addition, 48% of births were covered by Medicaid, and four in every 9 Long Island children or disabled individuals were covered by Medicaid, 15.2% of whom were seniors. 

Nearly 1.5 million New Yorkers are at risk and will be potentially affected by the Medicaid cuts. On Long Island, 28,000 residents enrolled in subsidized Affordable Care Act plans will likely face a 32% cost increase. An additional 70,000 individuals who do not currently pay premiums may be required to pay a portion of their costs, and a likely increased amount if subsidies are not extended. 

The cuts to Medicaid will increase the demand and stress on emergency rooms and urgent care centers. Lacking any other option due to a loss in insurance elicits, those in need of medical care will seek help from already strained emergency rooms. This strain on medical facilities transcends into outside care as well. For example, home care will be impacted, a form of care that many elderly depend on.

Collaboration is Key

Long Island is determined to approach these issues with unwavering devotion to residents. Changes to Medicaid and healthcare have occurred numerous times, requiring resilience and effective problem-solving skills displayed by local leaders. Continuing to support the most vulnerable residents, partnerships and fundraising among different Long Island organizations will ensure help is provided throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. 

David Nemiroff, president and chief executive of Harmony Healthcare Long Island, is exploring a partnership with Nassau University Medical Center. This initiative will lessen the costs for patients. Nemiroff specifically states that “It would be mutually beneficial to work together. There’s something that we do better on the outpatient side.”

While the challenge at hand appears daunting, the push for state aid as well as the local initiatives created by healthcare leaders are proactive actions with real impact. By strengthening and increasing partnerships, expanding outreach efforts, and advocating for sustainable funding, Long Island is seeking the best options for its residents. Historically, policies have changed and will continue to change, but Long Island’s commitment to healthcare will always remain the same: to ensure that every individual, regardless of financial status, receives quality care. 

FAQ

What is happening to Medicaid and ACA subsidies?

Federal Medicaid cuts and the potential expiration of Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies are expected to reduce healthcare coverage for many New Yorkers. Without continued federal support, individuals may lose coverage entirely or face significantly higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Why are Long Island community health centers requesting $300 million in state funding?

Community health centers across New York State, including Harmony Healthcare Long Island, Sun River Health, and Long Island Select Healthcare, are requesting a $300 million investment in the state budget to stabilize healthcare access and ensure centers can continue serving all patients regardless of their financial circumstances.

How many Long Islanders rely on Medicaid?

In 2025, nearly 680,000 Nassau and Suffolk County residents relied on Medicaid. Statistically, 48% of births on Long Island were covered by Medicaid, four in every nine children or disabled individuals depend on Medicaid, and 15.2% of Medicaid recipients are seniors. These numbers demonstrate how deeply Medicaid supports families, children, seniors, and vulnerable residents. 

How many people are at risk of losing coverage?

Nearly 1.5 million New Yorkers are at risk of being affected by Medicaid cuts. On Long Island specifically, 28,000 residents with subsidized ACA plans could see a 32% premium increase in their payments. Additionally, 70,000 residents who currently pay no premiums may be required to begin paying, potentially at higher rates if subsidies are not extended. 

Who is leading advocacy efforts on Long Island?

Healthcare leaders and organizations, including Harmony Healthcare Long Island, Sun River Health, Long Island Select Healthcare, and the Community Health Care Association of New York State, are actively advocating for state support.

Read the full article here: Long Island health centers seek $300 million from state amid federal Medicaid cuts