CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WV News) — West Virginia hospitals contribute nearly $1.12 billion annually in community benefits and generate $16.9 billion in overall economic impact, according to a new report from the West Virginia Hospital Association.

The association said the community benefit figure reflects provider taxes paid into the state Medicaid program, shortfalls from Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements, investments in community programs and education, and the cost of charity care and bad debt.

“The blue hospital signs along our highways represent far more than emergency care," WVHA President and CEO Jim Kaufman said. "West Virginia hospitals have become community health hubs, addressing everything from addiction recovery to workforce development. Whether it's caring for babies born wit

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