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Rural Health Information Hub
Rural Health Information Hub

Rural Health
News by Topic: Access

Sep 29, 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 Connecticut Department of Social Services to verify the eligibility of applicants and subscribers to Lifeline. Lifeline provides discounted broadband and voice services to low-income consumers. Comments are due by October 29, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Sep 29, 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 Georgia Department of Human Services, Department of Family and Children Services to verify the eligibility of applicants and subscribers to Lifeline. Lifeline provides discounted broadband and voice services to low-income consumers. Comments are due by October 29, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Sep 27, 2026 - Describes the growth of mobile healthcare as a method of increasing access for rural communities.
Source: KCTV
Sep 25, 2026 - Announces proposed bipartisan legislation establishing a pilot program that would allow for reimbursement of dental care provided to rural veterans. The program aims to increase access to care while managing cost and capacity by using existing U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs infrastructure.
Source: Office of Representative Jack Bergman
Sep 22, 2026 - Announces newly awarded funding for telehealth and technology-enabled learning projects focused on testing innovative solutions, increasing access to nutrition services, and improving provider retention to strengthen the rural healthcare workforce.
Source: Health Resources & Services Administration
Sep 22, 2026 - Describes the benefits of a telestroke program including the improved outcomes as well as time and money saved for rural residents in need of emergency and follow-up care.
Source: Sanford Health
Sep 21, 2026 - Describes the importance of childcare access in responding to and recovering from disasters in rural communities, as seen in North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. Discusses the needs of childcare providers to reopen, including their own health and safety concerns and funding.
Source: The Daily Yonder
Sep 21, 2026 - Describes disparities in buprenorphine treatment availability in rural areas despite new data showing a national increase in the medication in pharmacies and emergency departments. Discusses challenges that continue to exist in rural Pennsylvania and highlights telehealth as a tool that could support improved access to the medication.
Source: WHYY
Sep 21, 2026 - More neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have opened across Oklahoma, increasing access for rural families across the state.
Source: News 9
Sep 18, 2026 - Describes technology being used in Nebraska that may facilitate better access to healthcare for rural patients and enhanced training for healthcare students.
Source: WOWT