https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/topics/population-health Rural Health & Human Services News by Topic: Population health - Rural Health Information Hub en Copyright 2026 Rural Health Information Hub 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://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2026/03/10/missouri-hospital-medicaid-pilot-torch-program/ Highlights a pilot program in a rural Missouri community offering a coordinated response to health and social needs for Medicaid patients. The program allows hospitals and other organizations to refer patients to service providers and track whether their needs are getting addressed. Describes how the program was started, the federal waiver that allows the program to run, and the technology used for it. Discusses sustainability challenges common for rural service providers. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38328 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 https://theconversation.com/mobile-clinics-offer-a-practical-way-to-improve-health-care-access-in-maternity-care-deserts-274476 Promotes mobile clinics as a delivery model for effective maternal health outreach in rural and other communities. Highlights maternity care deserts nationally and in Florida. Discusses successful use of the model in Florida for maternity care, noting that few of the nationally tracked mobile clinics offer maternal and infant healthcare. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38327 Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/09/2026-04566/proposed-data-collection-submitted-for-public-comment-and-recommendations Notice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) seeking comments on a proposed information collection titled "Developmental/Methodological Projects to Improve the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and Related Programs." NHANES produces descriptive statistics, which measure the health and nutrition status of the general population. The purpose of these projects is to evaluate proposed survey designs, content, methods, and alternative approaches to survey activities for NHANES or National Center for Health Statistics-wide projects. Comments are due by May 8, 2026. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38317 Mon, 09 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://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/04/2026-04237/board-of-scientific-counselors-national-center-for-injury-prevention-and-control-notice-of-charter The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announces the charter renewal of the Board of Scientific Counselors, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (BSC, NCIPC). The charter renewal is effective for a two-year period, through January 13, 2028. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38305 Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://dailyyonder.com/virtual-crisis-care-helps-rural-communities-access-mental-health-resources-in-emergencies/2026/03/02/ Highlights a virtual emergency mental health program in rural South Dakota. The program connects law enforcement responding to mental health crises with behavioral health clinicians and offers the person in crisis access to resources available in their community. Following successful implementation in South Dakota, Wyoming is piloting a similar program. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38299 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://nativenewsonline.net/health/you-are-never-alone-how-one-tribe-is-fighting-youth-suicide-with-culture-and-crisis-response/ Describes the focus on native culture as a preventive strategy for suicide and mental health crises in Lummi Nation. Discusses high rates of drug overdoses among Lummi Nation youth. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38300 Sat, 28 Feb 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://rethinkingclinicaltrials.org/news/february-19-2026-ramp-pilot-study-supports-telehealth-mind-body-program-for-rural-veterans-with-chronic-pain/ 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. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38266 Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.chiefhealthcareexecutive.com/view/meharry-medical-college-brings-more-care-to-rural-tennessee 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. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38263 Wed, 18 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 https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2026/02/13/university-of-iowa-researchers-create-tools-for-cancer-tracking-in-different-states/ Describes the Cancer Analytics & Maps for Small Areas (CAMSA), a tool offering cancer incidence and mortality rates data at the Iowa county and Zip Code Tabulation Ares (ZCTA) levels. Notes that rural areas often have data gaps in national tools. Discusses collaborations with other states to develop similar tools. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38261 Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://den.mercer.edu/school-of-medicine-receives-over-600000-to-continue-fighting-opioid-epidemic/ The Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust has awarded more than $600,000 to research and prevention projects at Mercer University School of Medicine. The projects address substance use in Georgia and emphasize prevention, treatment, and impact in rural communities most affected by the opioid epidemic. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38245 Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/09/2026-02459/agency-information-collection-activities-submission-to-the-office-of-management-and-budget-omb-for The Census Bureau is seeking comments on revisions to the Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey (HTOPS). HTOPS, a progression from the Household Pulse Survey, is designed to ensure the availability of frequent data collection for nationwide estimates on a variety of topics for a variety of subgroups of the population. In September 2025, the Census Bureau will conduct the 2030 Census Planning Survey, which is designed to understand attitudes and behaviors that relate to 2030 Census participation across demographic characteristics. The October and December topical surveys will include content from the Household Pulse Survey. Comments are due within 30 days of this notice. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38231 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-211-helpline-center-housing-food-utilities/ Analyzes 211 call data to identify areas of need at the county level in South Dakota, including housing, food, and utility assistance. Highlights the work of 211 staff. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38222 Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://news.uams.edu/2026/02/03/digital-health-diabetes-education-improves-health-of-rural-communities-across-arkansas/ Summarizes new research finding that rural Arkansans with type 2 diabetes had improved health outcomes following virtual delivery of diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES). The study also compared standard and family-centered models DSMES and discusses the benefits of the family model for the patient and others in their support network. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38221 Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.healthleadersmedia.com/innovation/sanford-health-makes-transformation-rural-priority Discusses the rural-focused work at a primarily rural health system. Highlights the use of telehealth and artificial intelligence to tackle common rural health challenges. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38215 Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/03/2026-02249/addressing-addiction-through-the-great-american-recovery-initiative Executive Order from the Office of the President establishing the White House Great American Recovery Initiative. The Initiative will coordinate the Federal Government's response to the addiction crisis, including advising heads of executive departments and agencies on how to implement programs that integrate prevention, early intervention, treatment, recovery support, and re-entry into all relevant systems. The Initiative will be co-chaired by the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Senior Advisor for Addiction Recovery, and will have an Executive Director who shall administer the Initiative who will report to the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38213 Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://p4qm.org/prmr-muc-list-comments-and-summaries/2025-2026-prmr-final-muc-recommendations-spreadsheet-xlsx Offers the ability to provide comments regarding the inclusion of 24 Measures Under Consideration List for the purpose of offering additional feedback to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid. Comments are due February 16, 2026. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38220 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://news.cuanschutz.edu/health-and-wellness/rivers-study-bringing-individualized-exercise-to-rural-cancer-survivors Describes a study for a virtual exercise program, Response-Driven Individualized Virtual Exercise for Rural Survivors (RIVERS), aiming to positively impact rural cancer outcomes. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38216 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.thegeorgiavirtue.com/georgia-health/18-rural-georgia-counties-partner-to-reduce-opioid-overdoses/ Discusses overdose death disparities in rural Georgia and new funding for 18 communities to support community-based responses. Notes rural-specific challenges in addressing the opioid crisis. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38210 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.twinstates.news/news/local/proposed-mississippi-legislation-targets-food-insecurity-and-food-deserts/article_ced75e9c-c589-4408-ac28-f1c104eb7f4f.html Discusses food deserts in rural and other parts of Mississippi, associated health disparities, and proposed legislation to support communities in food deserts. Notes that rural residents are on average 30 miles away from a grocery store. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38206 Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/01/29/2026-01730/medicare-program-ensuring-safety-through-domestic-security-with-made-in-america-personal-protective Notice of proposed rulemaking from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) seeking comments on potential options for Medicare participating hospitals to help foster a more resilient supply chain for American-made personal protective equipment and essential medicines, as well as a possible new "Secure American Medical Supplies" friendly designation that could be earned by hospitals. Among other things, this notice also seeks input on a potential new structural quality measure as part of the Hospital Inpatient Quality Reporting (IQR) Program that could promote hospital commitments to invest in domestic procurement. Comments are due by March 30, 2026. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38198 Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.sbu.edu/support-sbu/2026/01/28/sbu-receives--750-000-cabrini-grant-to-launch-mobile-health-clinic Highlights new funding for a mobile health clinic designed to expand access to healthcare in rural New York and support training healthcare workers. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38202 Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.kcur.org/health/2026-01-27/how-kansans-are-coping-with-parkinsons-disease-rates-near-the-highest-in-the-nation Highlights high rates of Parkinson's disease in Kansas and programs across the state helping diagnosed Kansans manage symptoms. Describes a rural organization offering art therapy and exercise classes, including how they manage to offer support using technology. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38194 Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.ruralhealth.us/blogs/2026/1-jan/meeting-essential-needs-brings-dignity-to-the-desert Highlights a Arizona diaper bank program that includes incontinence supplies for aging rural residents. Notes the improved mental and physical health outcomes associated with easy access to diapers and similar products across the lifespan. Discusses the programs successes, replication in other communities, and reliance on volunteers https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38185 Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600 https://www.farmprogress.com/farm-life/how-better-sleep-keeps-farmers-healthy-and-safe Describes the impact of sleep on safety in farming work and overall health. Discusses the impact of poor sleep and notes that a traditional farming schedule can disrupt sleep patterns. Offers recommendations for good sleep practices and treating common sleep disorders. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/news/38174 Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600