Hospital Closures Episodes
Feb. 20, 2026
1073: Coverage, Consequences, and the Leaders Shaping Public Health’s Future
What happens when health coverage becomes unaffordable, and who’s stepping up to lead in moments like this? This episode connects two powerful public health stories. First, we break down the ACA enhanced premium tax credits: what they were, who they helped, and what’s at stake now that they’ve expired. Catherine Jones, senior analyst for government affairs at ASTHO, will explain how these pandemic-era subsidies dramatically expanded access to marketplace coverage, helping middle-income famili...
Guests: James Bell III DSW MSW , Catherine Jones, MPH
Jan. 14, 2026
1052: Strengthening Access to Care: Community Health Workers, Medicaid, and Rural Health
Community health workers (CHWs) play a critical role in bridging the gap between health systems and the communities they serve, especially in rural and underserved areas. In this episode, ASTHO Senior Director of Population Health, Alex Kearly, explains who CHWs are, how they build trust and address both health and social needs, and why Medicaid reimbursement can help make these roles sustainable.
Guest: Alex Kearly, MPH