Experts are warning Long Islanders about the possible effect of President Bush's new budget on health care systems.

Social Services advocates say cuts to Medicaid and Medicare could force hospitals and nursing homes in the Island's poorest areas to shut down. Experts add the reductions could be avoided by abandoning tax cuts for the richest Americans.

Individuals could also be affected by the new budget. Glenda Hills of Uniondale says the federal government provides the health coverage for her 4-year-old asthmatic daughter. Hills says if health care cuts become a reality, she may have to cut back on food and electricity to pay doctor bills.