Cover Alabama and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) unveiled a striking new billboard near Jackson Hospital today, spotlighting the urgent need for Medicaid expansion to safeguard healthcare access and protect Alabama’s hospitals. Featuring the message, *“Save Jackson Hospital. Expand Medicaid now.”* alongside an image of an ambulance, the billboard underscores the critical need to address Alabama’s healthcare coverage gap.
According to a report from the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform, more than half of Alabama’s 52 rural hospitals are at risk of closure, with 23 facing an immediate threat. This crisis has already hit close to home, with Thomasville Regional Medical Center closing in recent weeks and other hospitals across the state reducing services.
“For too long, Alabama’s hospitals have struggled under the weight of a broken healthcare system,” said Debbie Smith, Cover Alabama campaign director. “This billboard is a stark reminder that without action, more hospitals will be forced to close, impacting families and economies across our state.”
Jane Adams, Government Relations Director for ACS CAN in Alabama, echoed the call for urgent action. “This is no longer just a rural problem. Hospitals in urban and suburban areas are also at risk. We need Governor Ivey to act now before it’s too late.”
The challenges facing Alabama hospitals have far-reaching implications, particularly for rural communities. Retired Brig. Gen. Edward Crowell, board chair of Jackson Hospital, highlighted the impact Medicaid expansion could have: “Jackson Hospital plays a vital role in ensuring that community members have access to essential health services,” Crowell said. “Medicaid expansion would be a game-changer, strengthening hospitals across the state and enabling us to continue serving those in need.”
The billboard, located on I-85 westbound near Jackson Hospital, will remain visible for several weeks as part of a broader campaign by Cover Alabama and ACS CAN to raise awareness and inspire Alabamians to advocate for change. Organizers hope the campaign will encourage residents to contact their legislators and urge them to take action on Medicaid expansion.
Cover Alabama is a nonpartisan alliance of over 100 community partners, businesses, healthcare providers, and faith groups advocating for quality, affordable health coverage for Alabama residents.
ACS CAN is the nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society. Since 2001, it has championed evidence-based public policies to reduce the burden of cancer, expanding access to healthcare and securing funding for cancer research.
