Accessing healthcare in rural areas of the United States can be a daunting task. Limited local emergency rooms and specialists, coupled with long travel times to clinics, create barriers to essential medical services.
However, the future of telehealth for Medicare beneficiaries remains uncertain. Policies enacted during the COVID-19 crisis facilitated virtual care access for rural Americans, but these initiatives are scheduled to end soon.
Recent studies highlight the crucial role of telehealth in post-pandemic healthcare delivery. Despite bipartisan backing for extending these services, legislative action is stalled as Congress grapples with funding issues through 2025. Failure to pass a bill before December 31 could result in renewed challenges for rural residents seeking medical assistance.
The closure of numerous hospitals and vital services like labor and delivery care has exacerbated healthcare disparities in rural regions (SN: 12/11/24). Nearly 200 rural hospitals have shut down since 2005, leaving millions without critical care options. Financial strains have put an additional 360 facilities at risk of closure. Presently, approximately 1,200 rural hospitals serve communities nationwide.
2024-12-20 10:12:43
Source: www.sciencenews.org