Hospitals Are Here for Patients: Making Care More Accessible and Affordable

As seen in the Wall Street Journal.

Hospitals are the heart of communities across America for one fundamental reason: They support patients whenever, wherever and however they need care.

Whether it’s a routine checkup, a sudden emergency, or specialized treatment for complex conditions, hospitals and health systems are built around a mission of service to patients and communities. This commitment is not limited to moments of crisis. It extends across a patient’s entire life.

That dedication begins with access. Hospitals operate around the clock, providing care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, because patients cannot predict when they will need help. From emergency departments equipped to handle trauma, natural disasters and acute illness, to maternity services, rehabilitation programs, and community clinics, hospitals maintain a constant readiness so individuals and families can count on reliable, high-quality care. This readiness is supported by highly trained physicians, nurses, technicians, and staff who bring specialized skills and a shared sense of responsibility to every patient they serve.

Rising health care costs are one of the most persistent sources of financial strain for American families.

Across the country, hospitals are working to reduce the cost of care by improving efficiency, embracing new technologies and redesigning how services are delivered. Hospitals and health systems are investing in preventive care and coordination programs that help patients manage chronic conditions, avoid unnecessary hospital visits and stay healthier at home. These efforts not only improve patient outcomes but also lower overall costs for patients, families and the health care system.

Innovation plays a major role as well. Hospitals and health systems are adopting technologies such as telehealth, remote monitoring, and digital patient tools to make care more convenient and cost effective for patients. Electronic health records and data-driven care models help clinicians identify risks earlier, reduce duplication of tests, and coordinate treatment more seamlessly. These improvements lead to better experiences for patients and more efficient use of resources.

However, many drivers of rising costs fall outside hospitals’ control, with the cost of caring for patients growing more than twice as fast as hospital prices. The

price of pharmaceuticals, technology and essential services has climbed sharply. Last year, hospitals’ drug expenses increased 13.6% while spending on medical supplies, equipment and technology increased 9.9%. Insurance premiums for families grew nearly twice as fast as hospital prices in 2025.

Our health care system did not become complicated overnight and to fix it

will not be easy. It will require each of us — government, commercial insurers, drug companies, providers and patients — putting aside our differences to come together with real solutions that will truly make health care work better for everyone.

At the center of all these efforts is a simple promise: hospitals are here for patients. They are here in moments of joy and moments of fear. They are here for families navigating uncertainty and individuals seeking hope. And they are here with a steadfast commitment to making care more accessible, affordable and responsive to the needs of every community they serve.