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Rural Health Information Hub
Rural Health Information Hub

Rural Health
News by Topic: Access

Feb 19, 2026 - Summarizes recent research finding that multimodal, telehealth delivered mind-body and exercise interventions are effective for rural veterans experiencing chronic pain. Notes that the program could be easily accessed by rural veterans due to the use of nonclinicians. Describes planned modifications for future programs iterations.
Source: NIH Pragmatic Trials Collaboratory
Feb 18, 2026 - Notice from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking comments on a new computer matching program between the FCC, the Universal Service Administrative Company, and the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration Division of Family Resources to verify the eligibility of applicants and subscribers to Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). These programs are designed to facilitate and support access to affordable broadband services for low-income consumers and families. Comments are due by March 20, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Feb 18, 2026 - Describes a Tennessee university's mobile dental care program bringing access to oral care into rural communities. Notes the potential improvements on both health outcomes and the dental workforce in the area.
Source: Chief Healthcare Executive
Feb 17, 2026 - The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is seeking comments on a request for information (RFI) regarding the potential use of rebates to effectuate the ceiling price under the 340B Program. The information collected through this RFI will be used to evaluate the potential benefits and costs of a rebate model, and such a model's operational, financial, and access to drugs for patients of a rebate model on covered entities, manufacturers, and other stakeholders. Comments are due by March 19, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Feb 17, 2026 - Discusses the need for and lack of mental healthcare in farming communities with a close look at Texas and Oklahoma. Identifies occupational contributors to stress and rural-specific barriers in accessing care.
Source: Southwest Farm Press
Feb 17, 2026 - The United States Department of Agriculture is seeking comments on an information collection titled "Generic Clearance to Conduct Formative Research or Development of Nutrition Education and Promotion Materials and Related Tools and Grants for FNS Population Groups." This information collection will be used by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to gather input into the development of nutrition education interventions that resonate with the intended target population, particularly low-income families. Comments are due by March 19, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Feb 12, 2026 - Highlights policy efforts in the Mississippi legislature aiming to support rural hospitals in creating new revenue streams through new services. The proposed legislation amends certificate of need regulations in the state.
Source: Mississippi Today
Feb 12, 2026 - Announces a bipartisan bill to permanently extend COVID-era Medicare telehealth flexibilities for rural areas.
Source: Office of Representative Zach Nunn
Feb 11, 2026 - An evaluation of the Pennsylvania Rural Health Model, describing changes intended to improve care quality, increase access to preventive services, and address local community health needs.
Source: Heath Affairs
Feb 11, 2026 - Highlights the success of a philanthropic-funded program placing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) with law enforcement officers across North Dakota. Describes the importance of the equipment in rural areas where lifesaving emergency care is often far away.
Source: North Dakota Monitor