Trump's healthcare agenda kicks into gear in 2026
The healthcare industry will see significant changes in 2026 as several of President Donald Trump’s policies take effect in the new year.
TL;DR
- In January, $10 billion in federal rural health funding will be distributed to all 50 states.
- Congressional Republicans allocated $50 billion over five years for rural health revitalization in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
- Trump's "Most Favored Nation" program aims to lower prescription drug prices by aligning U.S. prices with those in peer countries.
- Nine new drugmakers agreed to voluntarily lower prices for various medications, with a direct-to-consumer platform, TrumpRx.gov, launching in January.
- Biden's Inflation Reduction Act includes negotiated lower prices for 10 Medicare Part D drugs, effective January 1, 2026.
- Starting October 1, 2026, Medicaid eligibility for immigrants will be restricted to lawful permanent residents and specific categories, excluding asylees, refugees, and trafficking survivors.
- Federal matching funds for Medicaid coverage during medical emergencies for certain immigrants will be cut starting October 1, 2026.