To the Editor:
As the CEO of Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS), I am writing to share an important concern that could have serious consequences for our hospital and clinics and the community we serve. There is growing discussion about potential cuts to Medicare and Medicaid funding — cuts that would directly affect MMHS and limit our ability to provide the essential healthcare services our community relies on.
Mee Memorial is the only hospital within a 50-mile radius, making us a critical healthcare provider for Southern Monterey County. Our Emergency Department alone serves thousands of visits each year, providing lifesaving care to residents who would otherwise have to travel significant distances to receive urgent medical attention. In addition to emergency services, MMHS offers a wide range of care — including diagnostic imaging, surgery, pediatrics, skilled nursing and outpatient specialty care — through our hospital and network of clinics in King City and Greenfield.
Medicare and Medicaid funding is vital to maintaining these services. It allows us to treat patients regardless of their ability to pay and ensures that we can continue providing care to seniors, low-income families and other vulnerable members of our community. Over the past several years, we have expanded our capacity and increased patient access to care — but these advancements are at risk if funding is reduced.
The impact of these cuts would reach far beyond healthcare. MMHS is one of the largest employers in the region, supporting approximately 300 local jobs across a variety of healthcare and support roles. If funding is cut, not only would healthcare access suffer, but the local economy could take a significant hit as well.
We also play a critical role in the region’s emergency preparedness. MMHS serves as a backup facility for nearby areas, ensuring emergency care for both military personnel and civilians in the event of a disaster or major incident. Reductions in funding could compromise our ability to provide this essential support.
Our community has always supported MMHS, and we are proud to serve you. However, now we need your help. We urge you to reach out to your elected officials and make your voice heard. Let them know how important MMHS is to the health and well-being of Southern Monterey County. Protecting Medicare and Medicaid funding is not just about healthcare — it’s about preserving the strength and resilience of our community.
Below are a few key decision-makers you can contact to help raise awareness about this issue:
- The Honorable Mike Johnson
Speaker, United States House of Representatives
568 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515 Email Contact - The Honorable Brett Guthrie
Chairman, House Energy & Commerce Committee
2161 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515 Email Contact - The Honorable John Thune
Majority Leader, United States Senate
511 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510 Email Contact - The Honorable Michael Crapo
Chairman, Senate Finance Committee
239 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510 Email Contact - The Honorable Jason Smith
Chairman, House Ways & Means Committee
1011 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515 Email Contact
We are working closely with local, state and national healthcare organizations to oppose these cuts and protect the services that MMHS provides. But we can’t do it alone. Your voice matters. Please consider reaching out to these officials to share how important MMHS is to you, your family and our community.
Thank you for your continued support and trust. Should you have any questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Rena Salamacha
CEO, Mee Memorial Healthcare System
Editor’s Note: We welcome Letters to the Editor of local and general interest to our readers. Letters should include the writer’s first and last name, home address and phone number for verification. No anonymous letters will be printed. Letters may be edited for length, clarity and libel. Send letters via email to [email protected].
