Exploring the Challenges and Paths Forward in Rural Healthcare
Rural Healthcare Crisis: Addressing the Impact of the Affordable Care Act
Analyzing the Shortcomings and Potential Solutions for Rural America
Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was enacted in 2010, arguments are still continuing, especially on the floor of congress. The landmark piece of legislation aimed at extending healthcare coverage, reducing costs, and improving healthcare system efficiency. Nevertheless, despite its all-around intentions, rural America has been uniquely, still negatively impacted. Some blame the inaction by Congress’ i regarding the ACA. This reveals a landscape of challenges and missed opportunities.
The Problem
Folks living in rural neighborhoods face immense health-related challenges. Those include a higher rate of chronic illnesses and greater distance from medical care. Seniors, in particular, are more prone to these hardships. The ACA aimed to address some of these issues through the expansion of the Medicaid program and the subsidization of the insurance industry, which has ceased to function in rural communities. Yet, Congress’s reluctance to adapt and evolve the ACA has vacated many of these provisions that are underutilized or…
