The federal government shutdown that began on October 1, 2025, is largely due to disagreements over healthcare issues between Democrats and Republicans. One major point of contention is the extension of subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance premiums, which are set to expire at the end of 2025. Democrats are pushing for an extension, as without it, ACA premiums are expected to rise by over 75% in 2026, resulting in an estimated 4.2 million Americans losing insurance.

Another key issue is the rollback of cuts to the Medicaid program, which was included in President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” signed into law on July 4. Democrats are seeking to renegotiate these changes, including new work requirements that would lead to an estimated 5 million people losing their health insurance coverage. Additionally, Democrats want to reverse restrictions that made immigrants who are lawfully present in the country ineligible for Medicaid and ACA coverage, which could lead to the loss of insurance for about 1.4 million people.

The shutdown may have far-reaching effects on healthcare, with potential impacts on various health services. Nonessential activities at federal agencies have been wound down, and the shutdown will continue until Congress passes a funding bill and Trump signs it. Some health services, such as surveying and certifying nursing homes, assisting Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries, and overseeing contracts for rural ambulance providers, may be affected.

However, some health services will continue to function, including Medicaid, which has enough funding to support the program through the end of the calendar year. Community health centers, which provide nonemergency medical services to about 34 million Americans, are expected to receive some funding, at least for now. The Indian Health Service and the Veterans Health Administration will also remain open.

The severity of the shutdown’s effects on healthcare will depend on how long it lasts and whether Trump follows through on his threat to use the shutdown as an opportunity to reshape the federal bureaucracy. The White House has announced plans for potential mass firings of workers, particularly those at “Democrat Agencies,” which could lead to more permanent reductions in health programs.

In the short term, seniors may face an immediate impact, as two programs that expanded access to telehealth services and allowed people to receive services at home have lost funding. Providers may be hesitant to schedule patients covered by Medicare if the shutdown drags on, as payments to medical providers would likely be delayed. Ultimately, the shutdown’s effects on healthcare will depend on the duration and the actions taken by the administration.