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Rural Health Information Hub
Rural Health Information Hub

Rural Health
News by Topic: Access

Aug 11, 2026 - Notice from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requesting comments on the process used to accelerate Medicare coverage through the Regulatory Alignment for Predictable and Immediate Device (RAPID) coverage pathway for new technologies. The RAPID coverage pathway will provide accelerated Medicare beneficiary access to certain eligible Class II and Class III Food and Drug Administration Breakthrough-designated Devices. Comments are due October 13, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 11, 2026 - Discusses risks associated with farming, prevention measures, and how emergency medical services can save lives. Highlights how access to EMS can be challenging for rural areas and the importance of volunteers for maintaining services.
Source: Farm Progress: Dakota Farmer
Aug 10, 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 Iowa Department of Health and Human Services to verify the eligibility of applicants and subscribers to Lifeline. This program is designed to facilitate and support access to affordable broadband services for low-income consumers and families. Comments are due by September 9, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 10, 2026 - Summarizes a panel at an agricultural conference discussing farmer mental health. Discusses stigma, health insurance access, preventive care, healthcare access, and the impact of healthcare on rural communities.
Source: Oklahoma Farm Report
Aug 10, 2026 - Discusses the MAT Mobile Clinic in Iowa, a mobile unit offering both medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders and wraparound services to improve recovery outcomes. The mobile unit improves access to treatment in rural communities, builds the knowledge base of local providers, and addresses stigma associated with substance use.
Source: Iowa Stories
Aug 10, 2026 - Highlights a redesign of traditional eye exam equipment that is portable. The equipment was developed at the Texas A&M School of Engineering Medicine to make comprehensive eye exams more accessible in rural communities and allow for collaboration with specialists.
Source: Texas A&M Stories
Aug 10, 2026 - Describes a community paramedicine program in Idaho and hopes to expand it using Rural Health Transformation Program funding. Discusses the role paramedics play in addressing chronic and non-urgent health conditions in areas with workforce shortages.
Source: Idaho Capital Sun
Aug 6, 2026 - New medical residents are joining a rural Oregon practice as part of the Oregon Health & Science University graduate medical program. Discusses how the program can expand access to healthcare in central Oregon.
Source: KTVZ
Aug 6, 2026 - Describes a telehealth pilot program in Montana to address rural child abuse by connecting rural providers with training, resources, and referrals to medical providers who have specialized training in child abuse care. Discusses the lifelong health, wellness, and economic challenges that can be avoided through early intervention.
Source: University of Montana News
Aug 6, 2026 - Notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) seeking comments on the renewal and revision of information collections related to the USDA Food Distribution Programs. Comments are due by September 8, 2026.
Source: Federal Register