BONNERS FERRY — Changes to Medicare and Medicaid funding are hitting close to home, local officials are saying.

"Today, approximately 80% of the care we provide is reimbursed through Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, or is uncompensated," Boundary Community Hospital officials said in a joint letter with Boundary County commissioners. "The significant portion of government-funded healthcare, combined with reimbursement rates that are often below the actual cost of providing care, creates substantial financial challenges for rural hospitals."

Complicating the issue is that reimbursement from many payers can take months to arrive.

"Together, these factors have placed increasing financial pressure on Boundary Community Hospital," they added.

That financial pressure is not unique to BCH, Boundary County officials said, noting that one-third of America's hospitals are experiencing significant financial challenges, with many rural hospitals facing closure.

"The financial pressures facing rural healthcare are systemic and are affecting communities across Idaho and the nation," BCH officials said.

The hospital is a vital resource for the community, providing emergency care, trauma services, inpatient care, surgery, rehabilitation services and diagnostic testing, among other services.

BCH officials said they are working with county commissioners, hospital organizations and Idaho legislators to explore ways to strengthen the hospital's long-term sustainability.

"By working together, we are committed to identifying practical solutions that will help preserve access to quality healthcare for our community," BCH officials said.

Moving forward will require discipline, thoughtful decisions and continued collaboration among local and hospital officials, community partners and local residents.

The board and hospital staff are reviewing operations, streamlining financial processes and pursuing grants and additional funding sources while maintaining a high level of care.

"Our goal is to ensure that Boundary Community Hospital remains a strong and sustainable healthcare resource for generations to come," BCH officials said.

Hospital and county officials said they are all committed to responsible stewardship, transparency regarding hospital operations and continuous improvement. 

The community also has a key role to play by choosing the Bonners Ferry hospital and clinics for its healthcare needs.

"Every patient who chooses local healthcare helps preserve these essential services for everyone in Boundary County," hospital officials said in the letter. "A strong community hospital benefits us all. It provides lifesaving emergency care, supports local jobs, strengthens our economy, and ensures that healthcare remains available close to home when it is needed most."