Rural Hospitals Get Lifeline Amid Medicaid, SNAP Cuts

President Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' introduces the Rural Health Transformation Program, allocating $50 billion over five years to help rural hospitals cope with Medicaid cuts, with Nebraska set to receive $100 million and other states preparing similar proposals. Dr. Mehmet Oz, as head of CMS, is working with state leaders to create tailored plans for distributing these funds, focusing on technology upgrades, workforce retention, and facility improvements. Despite these investments, experts warn that the bill's Medicaid reductions and stricter eligibility requirements could leave nearly 12 million Americans without health coverage by 2034. The bill also reduces funding for nutrition programs like SNAP, raising concerns for independent grocers and families relying on food assistance. Questions remain about the long-term sustainability of rural healthcare and states' ability to meet Medicaid obligations after the five-year period. The bill presents immediate relief for rural hospitals but signals major challenges for Medicaid and food security across the country.