How Will Healthcare Show Up on the Ballot in Texas Midterms?

With the midterm elections gearing up and critical deadlines approaching, it is more important than ever for hospital leaders and community members alike to exercise their right to vote and understand how healthcare shows up on the ballot.

For Texas hospitals and the communities they serve, decisions made by elected officials can directly influence healthcare access, workforce development, public health, insurance coverage, emergency preparedness and the resources available to care for patients.

The Texas Hospital Association sat down with Jim Parisi, Chief Executive Officer at St. Luke’s Health the Woodlands Hospital, Chair of THA’s Committee on Policy Development and member of the HOSPAC Board, to discuss the connection between civic engagement and healthcare. Drawing on his experience as a healthcare leader, Jim shared why voting matters, how healthcare issues show up on the ballot and what voters should consider as they head to the polls.

What is the importance of voting, especially when it comes to healthcare?

Voting is one of the most fundamental tools of our democracy, but its impact is perhaps nowhere more personal or immediate than in healthcare. Elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels set healthcare policy; your vote can influence who has access to care, how much it costs, and the quality of service people receive.

How does healthcare show up on the ballot – and why does understanding that connection matter for voters? How can voters recognize what healthcare issues they care about are represented through their vote – especially for local bills or representatives?

Your vote matters. In today’s environment, it may influence who has access to care in their local community. Additionally, reimbursement is a critical component – as funding is reduced across our industry, health systems are making hard decisions about service lines.

What healthcare issues should Texas voters be paying attention to when they head to the polls?

Access to healthcare – including maternal care and mental health, Medicaid funding and the growing numbers of self-pay with changes in ACA – and strengthening regulations related to prompt payment by the payers.

How does voting impact hospitals and the broader healthcare system? Why should hospital leaders, healthcare workers and patients pay attention to elections?

Communities need access to healthcare; beyond providing necessary care, a strong healthcare system is critical to attract business and build a strong local or state economy. Often, hospitals are the largest employer in the community, and decisions that affect hospitals trickle down to employees and the community. Furthermore, voting affects health equity, social determinants of health, and public health at many levels, including having the infrastructure in place to respond immediately to disasters or public health concerns.

Why does civic engagement matter to the health of a community?

By engaging civically, you aren’t just performing a duty – you are contributing to a physical and social environment that makes it easier for you, your family, and your neighbors to live longer, healthier lives.

If you could leave voters with one message about the connection between their vote and healthcare outcomes, what would it be?

I think it is easy to be cynical about whether your vote matters. It does.

Politicians do care about your opinion. They make decisions based on the feedback they receive. The more we contact them and vote, the better they understand our views and needs in the communities we live in. Access to health care is a fundamental need for all.

Voting is one of the most effective ways to help shape your community. Whether you are a hospital leader, a healthcare worker, a patient or a community member, your voice matters. As you make your plan to vote, remember the last day to register to vote is Oct. 5. You can check your voter registration status here. For additional important dates and information, read THA’s guide to What Texas Voters Need to Know About the 2026 Midterm Election.

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