Illinois’ 86 small and rural hospitals account for 38% of all hospitals in the state and contribute $16 million annually to the economy. With distinct characteristics from their urban counterparts, small and rural hospitals ensure access to high-quality care to 1.6 million residents in rural areas. Nearly 98% of these hospitals have fewer than 150 beds and 64% are Critical Access Hospitals.

Pharmaceutical companies have been limiting access to lifesaving drugs through the federal 340B drug discount program since 2020, counter to the 32-year-old law that created the program. As a result, participating hospitals have seen significant drops in savings—up to 75% over three years—which they use to reduce costs and enhance services for low-income patients.