A Storm Brewing: Expiring ACA Marketplace Enhanced Subsidies and the Risk of Another Federal Government Shutdown
As we edge closer to a new year, two major federal policy flashpoints are aligning in ways that could profoundly affect millions of Americans: the scheduled expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace subsidies and the possibility of another government shutdown. Either event alone would generate uncertainty and disruption for families, providers, insurers, and […]
Listening to Providers and Government Agencies: Insights from Washington State’s Human Service Engagement Report
Human services providers furnishing essential services — such as child protection, affordable housing assistance, job training, and support for people with disabilities — face an existential question: how to sustain their mission-driven work amid financial, administrative, and structural pressures? In an effort to evaluate the impact of state contracting structures and processes on human services […]
The Hidden Cost of Helping: Washington State’s Human Services Provider Crisis
More than 65,000 people in Washington State work in the human services sector, delivering child protection, affordable housing assistance, job training, and disability support to millions of residents. Yet many of these providers are operating on the financial edge, unable to sustain their core organizational functions under current state contracting structures. The Washington State Department […]
Nonprofit Lobbying and Advocacy: Understanding the Differences and Preparing for Changes in 2026
Leaders of nonprofit health and human service providers and philanthropies must engage with elected officials about the impacts of a tumultuous public policy landscape on the people and communities they serve. Advocacy and lobbying are essential strategies to safeguard your organization’s mission amid fiscal, regulatory, and legislative uncertainties at all levels of government. Unfortunately, some […]
How All Three Branches of Government Changed the Legal Landscape Around Federal Grant Funding
The Trump Administration, the Supreme Court, and the 119th Congress have significantly changed the federal grant funding landscape since the start of 2025. Atrómitos has written a new policy brief to help nonprofits stay informed about funding freeze lawsuits, presidential executive orders, and new legislation. The brief offers strategies for health and human service providers […]
Impacts of The One Big Beautiful Bill Act on Nonprofit Organizations and Charitable Giving
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4, 2025, reshapes the charitable giving landscape, presenting challenges and opportunities that demand immediate strategic focus. Nonprofits that proactively adapt their fundraising approaches can better sustain and grow their funding support base. Changes to Individual Charitable Giving (Effective 2026) New Universal Charitable Deduction […]
When Federal Data Disappears: How Missing Health Data Undermines Grant Funding and Equity Initiatives
A presidential executive order did more than send a political message; it disrupted a system that numerous organizations rely on when seeking grant funding, revealing the truth about health disparities, and designing effective public health interventions. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Jan. 20, 2025, directing federal agencies to eliminate references to “gender […]
“One Big Beautiful Bill” Reduces Medicaid and Food Stamp Funding and Could Trigger Medicare Cuts
The “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on May 22 represents the largest reductions to Medicaid in the program’s 60-year history, according to KFF Health News “What the Health” podcast. According to a May 20 analysis of the bill, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that proposed changes […]
How State Policy Shapes Human Service Delivery and the Urgent Need for Outcome-Driven Reform
State contracting policies significantly impact human service providers, often creating financial and administrative challenges that hinder service delivery. Many providers face inefficiencies that lead to financial instability, staff turnover, and service disruptions. The shift to outcome-based contracting can help to create a more sustainable and effective human services sector.
Funding Federal Government: Who Has the Power to Do What?
Understanding the federal budget process is crucial, especially when funding for essential programs is at risk. The executive branch cannot unilaterally withhold congressionally approved funds, as demonstrated by the recent federal court ruling.
Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks White House Effort to Pause Federal Grant Dollars to States and Nonprofits
A U.S. District Court judge blocked the Trump administration’s effort to pause federal grant funding to state governments and nonprofit health and human service providers on Tuesday, January 28th, at 5 p.m. ET.
Telehealth Improving Access to Care in Rural Communities
In May 2024, the Atrómitos Way Podcast focused on the youth mental health crisis, especially in rural areas where children and their parents often face significant obstacles in accessing care. Our episode, “Rural Telehealth: Transforming Child Mental Health,” with Billy West, the CEO of Daymark Recovery Services, explored these barriers to care and highlighted an […]
Youth Mental Health: A Call for Compassion and Action
In May 2024, the Atrómitos Way Podcast ran a dedicated segment about the youth mental health crisis. In “Coastal Horizons: Tackling the Youth Mental Health Crisis,” guests Ryan Estes, Chief Operating Officer, and Kristina Clemmons, Program Director of North Carolina-based Coastal Horizons, spoke about how the COVID-19 pandemic cast a long shadow over the emotional […]
Dear Appreciated Clients, Trusted Healthcare Partners, Invaluable Colleagues and Loyal Friends
As the founder of Atrómitos, a healthcare and human service consulting firm dedicated to creating healthier and more resilient communities that encompass fairness and inclusion, I have seen the impact federal policies have on our clients and partners. They are concerned about how potential changes in governmental programs will affect everything from funding and regulatory […]
The Importance of Data Equity and Integrity in Public Health Decision Making
Data plays a critical role in shaping decisions, policies, and strategies in today’s fast-paced public health world. However, not all data is created equal. Ensuring it is accurate, unbiased, and easily accessible is essential for making informed, fair, and effective decisions that truly benefit all communities. What is Data Equity and Data Integrity? Data equity, […]
A Key to Enhancing Mental Health in the Workplace: Emotional Intelligence
Understanding Emotional Intelligence In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive business world, emotional intelligence (EI) is a vital skill for success. Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Thanks to psychologist and author of “Emotional Intelligence,” Daniel Goldman, emotional intelligence has become […]
Bridging the Gap: Innovative Solutions to Combat Healthcare Staffing Challenges
In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, a significant challenge that looms large is the workforce shortage across the sector. This crisis has only been exacerbated by the retirement of baby boomers, the taxing demands placed on healthcare workers, and, not least, the systemic shocks introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Amidst this turbulent scenario, a beacon […]
Rebuilding the Security Risk Assessment
What is the most important piece of advice I would give an organization regarding cybersecurity risk management? My first response was simple (perhaps too simple): Just do it.
Benefit and Harm of Non-Profit Hospital Billing Practices
In a recent article, we raised the question of whether nonprofit hospitals are effectively “earning” their privileged tax status by returning a community benefit greater than, or at least equal to, the cost of their deferred taxes. We also discussed how the Affordable Care Act provided essential tools, the Community Health Needs Assessment and the […]
A Revolutionary Idea: Communities Deserve Community Benefit
The community hospital – frequently a nonprofit organization organized around community service, charity care, and serving the poor in multiple capacities – has been a cornerstone of our health system. Today, the majority of the 6,219 hospitals across the United States (2,978 or 57%) are nonprofit. As a nonprofit, this means that they do not pay certain local, state, and federal taxes, such as property and income taxes. This exemption is not insignificant: in 2020 alone, it amounted to $28 billion.
A Primer on the New Hanover Community Endowment Application Process
This year the Endowment has launched six strategic grant opportunities under Community Development, Community Safety, Education, and Social and Health Equity. This year the Endowment has launched six strategic grant opportunities under Community Development, Community Safety, Education, and Social and Health Equity. With approximately two weeks left in the grant cycle, many factors must be considered by an organization when applying for an opportunity.
The New Frontier in Medicaid Innovation: Financing the Delivery of Health-Related Social Needs
Social determinants of health are the social and economic conditions in which people are born, live, and work. Health behaviors and social determinants of health account for 80% of health outcomes across populations.[1]Healthcare providers, social service providers, health policy experts, researchers, and patient advocates have known for decades that SDOH directly drive poor health outcomes and high-cost care.
You’re on Mute: Engaging Remote and Hybrid Employees
The pandemic thrust many businesses into the virtual realm for the first time, and now that we’ve embraced this digital shift, there’s no turning back – at least not completely. The concept of “work” is evolving, offering appealing prospects for the future workforce. However, as modern technology opens new doors, it also ushers fresh challenges to address, particularly concerning communication and collaboration. Join us this week for Stefanie Adams of WNY Development and the importance of engagement with your remote and hybrid employees.
Unlocking Federal Funding: A Guide to Diversifying Resources for Nonprofits and State Agencies
Familiarity with diversifying funding streams, especially in nonprofits and state agencies, often includes knowledge of federal funding processes. Congressionally Directed Spending Requests, obtained through appropriations bills, are highly sought after. Members of Congress submit these requests, hoping to secure necessary expenses for their respective states. These bills also fund federal agency programs and contribute to federal grants.
Embracing the Shift: Adjusting to the New Normal in the Era of Covid-19
Many of us are still coping with the processes involved with this adaptation and the changes that have occurred over the last few years. As the long-term effects of the pandemic are still unraveling, it’s hard to define when and how exactly things may solidify in this altered paradigm and how much of an impact all of this will have on us in the future.
Power of Branding for Nonprofits: Key Elements for An Effective Strategy
In my last article, Liz explained the importance of brand strategy, what it means for nonprofits, the benefits of starting a strong strategy, and the different approaches to effective implementation. In this article, we’ll explore the power of branding for nonprofits and why it’s crucial for their success.
The Role of “Social Facts”
The year is 2014. The place is Birmingham, England. The City Councilor of Birmingham has received a document now known as the Trojan Horse Letter. This letter outlines a plot by Islamic extremists to systematically take control of local schools.
A Bad Penny Always Turns Up
The Limit, Save, Grow Act of 2023, legislation to raise the U.S. debt limit, has introduced work requirements for Medicaid. However, work requirements in means-tested programs generally do not save money, as they limit access through administrative hurdles and restrictive criteria.
Power of Branding for Nonprofits: Why It’s Crucial for Success
Nonprofits play a vital role in addressing societal issues. Branding helps them stand out, connect with stakeholders, and achieve their goals. Let’s discover the power of branding for nonprofits.
Combating a Modern Inequity: How Digital Navigation Can Close the “Digital Divide”
Jamie Robbins, writes about providing patients free, in-language digital navigation services over the phone through their Link to Care WA program. This program helps patients connect to federal subsidy programs, learn about types of technology and how to use them, and access digital navigation services.