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Rural Health Information Hub

Iowa News

News stories from the past 60 days.

Aug 25, 2026 - Profiles a University of Iowa medical student who aims to practice in rural Iowa where there are physician workforce shortages. Discusses the importance of including rural training in medical school to prepare students for rural practice.
Source: Iowa Stories
Aug 20, 2026 - Highlights a philanthropic program in 9 states to ensure rural hospitals have access to generic drugs during drug shortages. Discusses how the pilot program will offer rural hospitals more consistency in drug availability, potential cost savings, and the goal to offer the program nationally.
Source: The Daily Yonder
Aug 12, 2026 - Offers recommendations and highlights rural assets for maternal healthcare, based on insights from leaders of 3 rural Iowa hospitals. Discusses upskilling and training the workforce, adapting guidelines, driving change, provider-patient relationships, and professional networking.
Source: Institute for Healthcare Improvement
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 - 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
Jul 27, 2026 - Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System merged in 2025, creating a rural health organization that serves Wisconsin, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This has improved recruiting and retention of staff and expanded access to care for underserved rural communities.
Source: American Medical Association