https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/topics/health-disparities Rural Health & Human Services News by Topic: Health disparities - Rural Health Information Hub en Copyright 2026 Rural Health Information Hub https://okcfox.com/news/local/rural-oklahomans-face-higher-heart-risks-limited-care-access-resident-health-care-experts-stroke-disease-people-issue-bypass-surgery-weatherford-oklahoma-city-treatment-trend Describes cardiovascular health disparities in rural Oklahoma, driven in part by limited access to healthcare facilities, specialists, and transportation. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38423 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.wafb.com/2026/04/08/gov-landry-signs-executive-order-create-new-office-focused-improving-rural-healthcare/ The governor of Louisiana has established the Office of Rural Health Transformation and Sustainability and the Rural Health Transformation Program Advisory Council. The 2 groups will administer Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) funds and ensure goals are met. Describes health disparities of rural residents in the state. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38414 Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.krwg.org/regional/2026-03-26/maternal-health-care-in-rural-tx-nearing-crisis-levels Highlights a recently published report to discuss maternal healthcare and resource access challenges in rural Texas. Discusses telehealth and federal programs as potential solutions to those access challenges. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38375 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 https://news.okstate.edu/articles/education-human-sciences/2026/osu-staking-its-claim-on-the-forefront-of-rural-behavioral-health-efforts.html The American Psychological Association Committee on Rural Health has been awarded an APA presidential citation for its work on rural health including a national needs assessment. Includes an interview with a committee member on rural behavioral health, discussing access to care and rural health resources and training through Oklahoma State University. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38343 Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 https://ncnewsline.com/2026/03/10/nc-has-plenty-of-doctors-and-nurses-to-deliver-babies-but-rural-counties-still-go-without/ Describes the maternal healthcare workforce distribution in North Carolina and health disparities for rural residents where there are workforce shortages. Notes that recent policy measures aiming to increase rural access with certified nurse midwives has not fully addressed the shortage. Discusses the potential for doulas to fill the gap. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38330 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 https://wtov9.com/news/local/wvu-medicine-opens-new-wound-care-clinic-in-new-martinsville-expanding-rural-access-wvu-medicine-wound-care-rural-health-new-martinsville-wetzel-county-hospital-diabetic-ulcers-infection-management-specialized-treatment A new wound care clinic has opened in rural West Virginia. Notes that rural residents are more likely to experience diabetes and vascular conditions, diseases associated with slow to heal wounds and increased risk of infection. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38311 Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://wach.com/news/local/health-groups-host-free-diabetes-wellness-expo-to-tackle-disparities-in-rural-communities Highlights a program in rural South Carolina offering resources and support to people with diabetes. Notes common challenges for rural residents in accessing healthcare. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38293 Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.kbtx.com/video/2026/02/24/texas-am-program-targets-rural-health-care-through-value-based-care-model/ Describes a value-based care program has been implemented in Texas. Discusses how many patients have been served, how rural is defined, rural healthcare challenges, and upcoming plans for the program. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38285 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://pccinnovation.org/news-events/rural-vulnerability-in-texas-a-structurally-differ-391 Analyzes chronic disease data to discuss health outcomes in rural Texas. Discusses ways rural health challenges are different from urban ones, noting rural-specific issues around chronic disease, access to care, broadband access, and maternal health. Highlights rural-specific strengths that can be used in healthcare innovation. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38269 Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.farmprogress.com/farm-life/mental-health-needs-in-rural-areas-rise-but-access-lags 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. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38258 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600