Nebraska hospitals express concern over tariff-related price hikes

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Potential price increases on essential items like syringes and medications, many of which come from China, are leaving hospitals concerned for the future.

According to the American Hospital Association, the vast majority of health care experts expect tariffs to raise hospital costs by 15 percent over the next six months.

Ninety-four percent of health care workers are expected to delay equipment upgrades as well.

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The Nebraska Hospital Association said it worries about the impacts here in Nebraska.

“Potential tariffs on pharmaceuticals could lead to significant price hikes for patients and potential supply shortages for antibiotics, cancer, and cardiovascular medications,” the group said in a statement. “There may be a disproportionately negative impact on rural and critical access hospitals in our state who often operate on negative financial margins.”

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