TX hospitals: We contribute billions to economy - don't cut Medicaid

Before state lawmakers cut Medicaid fees to local hospitals, the Dallas Fort Worth Hospital Council wants them to consider the billions they contribute to the local economy. According to a report released Monday, the salaries, wages and benefits paid to employees of 75 North Texas hospitals and related businesses infused $12.2 billion into the local economy last year, up 9%, or $1 billion, from 2008.There's concern that legislators will implement a 10% cut in Medicaid fees to hospitals in an effort to fix the state budget. A fee cut could mean job losses and less tax revenue for local communities. Stephen Love, president and chief executive of the council, said local hospitals need to be included in discussions about Medicaid modifications.