Rural Health
News by Topic: Access
Sep 4, 2024 - The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) will hold a public meeting of the Advisory Committee on Infant and Maternal Mortality (ACIMM) on October 16-17, 2024. Agenda items are being finalized but may include committee discussions on the workgroup topics of rural healthcare access, social drivers of health, and women's health before/between pregnancies; federal updates; and possible recommendations to achieve optimal maternal health and overall birth outcomes for underserved populations, including Black/African-American families. The webinar link and log-in information will be available at the ACIMM website before the meeting. Requests for public comment should be sent via email to SACIM@hrsa.gov.
Source: Federal Register
Sep 4, 2024 - Provides overview of an informal network supporting aging adults in rural Glen Ullin, ND. Describes services offered by a resource coordinator, nurse practitioner, volunteer EMT crew, and local priest. Notes that the physical distance separating neighbors in some rural communities can both complicate healthcare access and lead to loneliness.
Source: NPR
Sep 4, 2024 - Highlights the opening of a telehealth hub at a public library in Sundown, Texas. Provides overview of amenities, including a computer and webcam, blood pressure machine, scales, and oximeters. Notes the importance of regular blood pressure checks, especially in an area with high rates of hypertension.
Source: KCBD
Sep 3, 2024 - Highlights the growing need for Spanish-language healthcare services in Utah, particularly in rural areas with large immigrant populations. Discusses the role of partnerships and diverse organizational leadership for meeting the needs of bilingual patient populations. Details efforts to address bilingual provider shortages through pipeline programs and regulatory changes.
Source: Utah News Dispatch
Sep 3, 2024 - Outlines a new coalition of public universities working together to develop resources to prevent substance use and support behavioral health among rural youth. Notes that rural youth display similar rates of behavioral health issues as urban youth, but may have less access to prevention and support services.
Source: West Virginia Public Broadcasting
Aug 30, 2024 - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will hold a virtual public meeting of the Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs from September 24-26, 2024. The Committee will provide advice and guidance to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on all matters relating to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, Native Hawaiian organizations, and Native American Veterans. The agenda will include, among other things, updates on the VA Native American Direct Loan and Specialty Adapted Housing Programs; homeless programs; VA Office of Rural Health; VA Reimbursement Agreement program; Veterans Benefits Administration/Outreach, Transition, and Economic Development/PACT ACT; and the VA Office of Connected Care.
Source: Federal Register
VA: Veterans Rural Health Advisory Committee, Notice of Meeting
Federal Register
Aug 30, 2024 - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will hold a virtual public meeting on September 16, 2024, from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Eastern. Agenda items include updates from VA leadership, the Executive Director of the VA Office of Rural Health, and the Committee Chair, as well as presentations by subject matter experts on general rural healthcare access.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 28, 2024 - Highlights a proposed bipartisan student debt relief bill to address healthcare workforce shortages in rural Pennsylvania communities. Discusses challenges with sustaining rural healthcare including recruitment and retention of the workforce.
Source: Spotlight PA
Aug 27, 2024 - Describes a rural outreach program in Colorado aiming to reduce barriers to healthcare and provide support for patients with multiple sclerosis.
Source: 9News
Aug 26, 2024 - Highlights the Technology-based Eye Care Services program through the VA Office of Rural Health, a program using telehealth to expand access to vision care for rural veterans.
Source: VA News