CHA Applauds Inclusion of Vital Children’s Health Policies in FY26 Funding Package

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In response to the FY 2026 HHS funding bill, the Children’s Hospital Association CEO Matthew Cook released the following statement:

“The legislation passed today includes a few significant investments in children’s health that we’ve consistently advocated for, including the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act, a funding increase for the Children’s Hospitals Graduate Medical Education (CHGME) program, and the elimination of cuts to Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) funding through FY 2027.

“CHA has been a leading advocate for the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act since its original introduction in 2018. The legislation breaks down bureaucratic barriers for children who must cross state lines for specialized care that’s unavailable close to home. This passage means that timely and often life-saving care will be available to children covered by Medicaid without delay.

“Over 50% of all pediatricians and pediatric specialists are trained at CHGME hospitals, making the program a critical resource for building the pediatric workforce nationwide. The $5 million increase in funding for the program represents a huge win for both providers and patients and will support the legacy of innovation at children’s hospitals.

“Additionally, eliminating Medicaid DSH cuts through the 2027 fiscal year means that children’s hospitals that treat high Medicaid populations can continue to provide needed care to all kids that come through their doors.

“CHA applauds the inclusion of these critical programs in the FY 2026 appropriations package and we look forward to continuing our work with Congress and the Administration to make children’s health a national priority.”