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Senator Schumer Secures Legislation to Address OB/GYN Shortages at Fort Drum

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer announced that he has secured legislation in the Senate's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 to address the long-standing shortage of Obstetrician-Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) at Fort Drum. The shortage has forced soldiers and military families to seek care from local hospitals off base or travel for hours when local care is unavailable.

Key Takeaways:

  • The provision requires the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Defense Health Agency (DHA) to develop a comprehensive plan to expand OB/GYN care serving Fort Drum and the surrounding Watertown area.
  • Senator Schumer's legislation aims to address the shortage of OB/GYNs on base, which has been exacerbated by a nationwide shortage of OB/GYNs, particularly in rural areas.
  • The provision also directs the Secretary of Defense to brief Congress on the plan by December 1 of this year.
  • The shortage of OB/GYNs at Fort Drum is part of a larger issue, with 40% of births in the United States paid for by Medicaid, making labor and delivery units particularly vulnerable to closures.
  • The recent GOP cuts to Medicaid will further exacerbate the already dire situation of limited access to critical OB/GYN care for those living on bases in rural America.
  • Erika Flint, Executive Director of the Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization, praises Senator Schumer for his support and attention to this issue, which affects North Country families, both civilian and military.

Statistics:

  • 40% of births in the United States are paid for by Medicaid.
  • Labor and delivery units are closing nationwide due to low reimbursement.
  • The recent GOP cuts to Medicaid will force more units in rural parts of the country to close.

Sources:

  • Office of the Senator Chuck Schumer. "Senator Schumer Announces Engagement to Address OB/GYN Shortages at Fort Drum." Washington, no date.
  • Erika Flint, Executive Director, Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization. Statement in support of Senator Schumer's legislation.

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