FRANCONIA, N.H. — Susan Bushby, a 70-year-old housekeeper from the picturesque White Mountains of New Hampshire, is among those deeply impacted by the recent closure of the Ammonoosuc Community Health Services. For over two decades, this community health center served as a second home to her and many locals, but last month it ceased operations.
With roughly 1,400 patients relying on the center, the abrupt closure has provoked anxiety and frustration among residents, especially the elderly population who require regular medical attention. Previously, Bushby could easily access care without major travel; now, she and others must endure a drive of at least 10 miles to reach the nearest medical facility, a trip made more arduous given the rural nature of the area.
Officials point fingers at significant Medicaid cuts that have adversely impacted the center's funding, compelling management to make tough choices that included shutting down the Franconia location. Patients, particularly those with chronic health conditions like cancer and heart issues, now grapple with the challenge of establishing care with new providers, many expressing feelings of loss and anxiety about the future.
Marsha Luce, whose husband faces serious health challenges, reflected on the emotional toll of the closure, saying, It’s going to be hard... It’s a relationship that you can talk to people... That connection will be missed. The center's shutdown exemplifies the ongoing struggle of rural health systems dealing with continuous Medicaid funding challenges and the cascading effects of the government shutdown.
As rural healthcare providers like the Ammonoosuc Health Center continue to face viable threats due to policy changes, the future remains uncertain for many who rely on these essential services.
