rural health care

The proposal would create a new category of “rural emergency hospitals” in Florida, with backers saying it would help increase access to health care in rural areas.

Experts say the lack of help available to rural Americans in navigating insurance options puts them at greater risk of losing health coverage than people in metropolitan areas.

When the pandemic began, senior service agencies hustled to rework health classes to include virtual options for older adults. Now that isolation has ended, virtual classes remain and access has increased.

Some people say it’s reasonable for densely populated areas to receive more settlement funds, since they serve more of those affected. But others worry this overlooks rural communities disproportionately harmed by opioid addiction.

Some pharmacies were small, independent operations that decided not to participate next year because of the lowered reimbursements. But they were surprised by an early dismissal, and patients with specialized needs could face difficulties in the transition.

Public transit is already insufficient in rural areas, leaving residents with few options as they travel greater distances to access health care. But older residents who depend on volunteers to get to appointments face another challenge.

The 988 line is the centerpiece of a nationwide effort to unify responses to Americans experiencing mental health crises. But many people, especially in rural areas, will continue to find themselves far from help if they need more support than operators can offer.

Rural pharmacies across the country are struggling to keep doors open. Reasons include insurance company practices, online sellers and COVID.

State rules were temporarily loosened in 2020 to help patients get care outside a doctor's office. But is telehealth by phone safe and effective? State legislatures and insurers must soon decide.

When it comes to persuading people to get a COVID-19 vaccine, health care professionals are influential. But in some rural communities, hospital staff themselves are hanging back.