Open Letter to Congressman Ciscomani: A Call for Change

In a heartfelt address to Congressman Juan Ciscomani, Clinton Kuntz, CEO of El Rio Health, emphasized the urgent need to protect Medicaid funding. Kuntz, a Tucson resident who has met with Ciscomani multiple times, commended the Congressman for his dedication to understanding the complexities of healthcare in southern Arizona.

Kuntz expressed deep concern regarding potential Medicaid cuts, particularly their disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities, including the Hispanic population, which constitutes 60% of El Rio’s patients. He highlighted alarming statistics pointing to the likelihood of deep cuts to Medicaid, despite assurances to the contrary from lawmakers. A recent Congressional Budget Office analysis illustrates that available funds fall significantly short of necessary reductions without affecting Medicaid.

Medicaid, or AHCCCS in Arizona, serves over 2 million residents, providing vital healthcare services to children, pregnant women, seniors, and low-income families. Kuntz noted that nearly 400,000 individuals in Pima County rely on this program for their medical needs, underscoring that these statistics represent real people—constituents and neighbors of the Congressman.

El Rio Health, which provides care to over 129,000 patients each year, sees nearly half of its clients relying on Medicaid. According to Kuntz, cuts to this funding would severely limit their ability to deliver essential services, leading to poorer health outcomes and greater costs across the healthcare system.

When patients lose coverage, they often delay seeking treatment until emergencies arise. This creates crowded emergency rooms, the most expensive avenue for care. The lack of follow-up leads to recurring health crises and further exacerbates the cycle of reliance on emergency services.

Kuntz made a compelling case that Medicaid is not merely a government expense but a strategic investment that helps stabilize healthcare costs and supports the broader economy. He pointed to a modeling scenario conducted with Capital Link, which indicated that El Rio could lose $23 million annually starting in 2026. Such losses would not only impact the organization but ripple through local economies, affecting jobs in various sectors, from healthcare to food service and beyond.

The implications of Medicaid cuts extend beyond the healthcare system. Kuntz warned of a potential economic downturn, with increased business closures, overwhelmed hospitals, and rising costs for taxpayers. He urged Ciscomani to remember the people and families who would suffer if funding is reduced.

Kuntz concluded by appealing for the Congressman to stand firm in protecting Medicaid, framing the decision as integral to the well-being of families and the future of Arizona’s economy. This plea encapsulates a pressing reality that transcends budget figures and resonates deeply within the community.

Clinton Kuntz remains committed to advocating for the needs of the community as CEO of El Rio Health.