rural health

The Rural Health Association’s priorities include topics the organization has advocated for before: expanding residency programs in rural areas, improving telehealth practices and increasing the cigarette tax.

Medicare Advantage plans — sometimes called Part C plans — are administered by commercial insurers that follow rules set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead CMS has shown support for the growth of these private health plans, which would further privatize the program.

Rural communities often have unique challenges when it comes to accessing health care. Some rural hospitals, like Rush Memorial Hospital, have had to invest in ways to connect people to care.

A study from the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform showed that 15 of Indiana’s 54 rural hospitals, over a quarter, are operating at a loss.

Rural health leaders in Indiana want more legislative support for rural hospitals and communities. The Indiana Rural Health Association presented its advocacy priorities at a recent policy forum.

Health care providers are advocating for more collaboration with lawyers, judges and others in the legal system to provide support for people with substance use and mental health issues.

Officials say telehealth is a helpful resource in rural areas. However, it's only effective in areas that have reliable broadband connections.

Health officials say many farmers don’t take the time to acknowledge mental health until it is too late.