Executive orders from President Donald Trump are disrupting patient care as healthcare providers struggle to access federal funds. Clinics in Virginia and West Virginia have shut down or laid off staff, while community health centers in California and Virginia lost grants for HIV prevention.
Some funding cuts stem from Trump’s directives to scrap diversity programs and recognize only two sexes. Others are linked to a now-rescinded freeze on federal spending. The National Coalition of STD Directors warns the situation is causing “mass confusion” as providers face payroll and supply shortages.
In Virginia, nine health centers risk closure, affecting 400,000 patients. Some centers rely on reserves, but funds are dwindling. In rural areas, alternatives are scarce. The Appalachian Center for Independent Living in West Virginia laid off three of five staff members due to funding delays. Two did not return after rehiring.
Several HIV prevention centers received notices terminating their CDC grants. St. John’s Well Child and Family Center in Los Angeles lost access to $746,000 for transgender healthcare but vowed to maintain services and joined a lawsuit against the cuts. The LGBT Life Center in Virginia faces losing $6.3 million—48% of its budget—threatening care for 400 HIV patients.
Healthcare providers warn that service disruptions could lead to worsening health outcomes and higher treatment costs.
Also read: Musk Advisor Tied to Controversial Posts, USAID Shutdown Email
