What's behind the financial crisis at HCMC, and will other hospitals be next?

Hennepin Healthcare operates one of Minnesota’s largest and most essential hospitals, HCMC, formerly known as Hennepin County Medical Center. And it’s not in good health.The hospital provides emergency trauma and burn care to patients from across Minnesota and trains more than a third of the region’s future doctors.But that mission comes at a cost. The public hospital serves more low-income and uninsured patients than other hospitals, leaving it especially vulnerable as federal Medicaid cuts take hold and the number of uninsured Minnesotans rises. Add in other mounting financial pressures, and leaders say the system is being pushed to the brink.HCMC has already eliminated 100 positions, reduced services and is now seeking sales tax revenue just to stay afloat.MPR News host Angela Davis talks with her guests about the financial crisis at HCMC, why other hospitals are also struggling and some possible solutions. Guests: Jan Malcolm was appointed by Gov. Tim Walz as his senior adviser on hospitals and health systems. She served as Minnesota’s health commissioner under three governors, stepping down in 2023 after guiding the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She previously served in executive positions at Allina Health and HealthPartners.Dr. Rahul Koranne is president and CEO of the Minnesota Hospital Association. He leads the organization in advocating for Minnesota's hospitals and health systems, focusing on sustainability, workforce challenges and community health. He previously served as the MHA's chief medical officer.