The proposal referred to as President Trump’s “big beautiful bill” certainly represents a significant shift in our health care system. However, it raises concerns about the potential impact on millions of Americans. According to the Congressional Budget Office, nearly 11 million people may find themselves uninsured by 2034 if this reconciliation bill is enacted, with 8 million expected to lose coverage specifically due to changes in Medicaid. As this
bill advanced through the House in late May, and just recently in the Senate, many states, including New Jersey, are increasingly wary about its implications, which will limit health care access to those who need it most.
At the Catholic HealthCare Partnership of New Jersey, we are deeply invested in the well-being of our community and particularly concerned for the up to 700,000 New Jersey residents who could lose their medical coverage, as well as the approximately 1.8 million who depend on Medicaid. In our state, Medicaid supports one in every four hospital patients. If we cannot continue to provide care for these individuals, our hospitals may face significant revenue shortfalls due to an increased number of uninsured patients seeking treatment in hospital emergency rooms.
Catholic HealthCare was founded on the principle that every life has inherent value, and it is crucial that we advocate for policies that protect the most vulnerable among us. New Jersey has a strong tradition of providing compassionate care, and we must not allow federal budget decisions to undermine that commitment.
Recently, Republican Commissioners in Ocean County raised important points about the reliance of nearly one in four residents on Medicaid, emphasizing the potential devastation of proposed cuts. We fully support these concerns. Should federal assistance be reduced, many individuals — including the elderly, children with complex needs, and individuals with disabilities — may struggle to access essential care, leading to increased pressure on our community’s emergency services.
The Catholic HealthCare Partnership recognizes the urgency of these local needs and
encourages everyone to join in this dialogue. Together, let’s reaffirm New Jersey’s spirit of
solidarity and shared belief in the inherent dignity of all individuals. Medicaid represents
critical care that transcends political considerations, and it is essential that we advocate
for it as a vital resource for our community.
Sister Pat Codey is the president of the Catholic Healthcare Partnership of New Jersey, a
statewide coalition established by the leaders of Catholic healthcare in New Jersey to
advance the healing mission of the Catholic Church.
