The healthcare industry has always been continuously evolving. One area of focus is the healthcare access of people living in rural areas. It is known that people living in rural areas face more challenges in accessing medical care than those living in urban areas. However, with the advancement in technology and the increasing usage of telemedicine, rural healthcare is expected to improve in the coming years. In this blog, we would discuss healthcare access in rural areas, the improvements seen in Medicare Advantage, and ways in which the healthcare industry is preparing to provide better healthcare access in rural areas https://www.medicareadvantageplans2024.org/
According to the National Rural Health Association, 15% of Americans live in rural areas. However, only 10% of doctors practice in these areas. Rural residents face unique challenges in healthcare access, including a shortage of medical professionals and facilities. According to the American Hospital Association, since 2010, over 120 rural hospitals have closed, making access to healthcare more difficult for people in rural areas.
One way in which the healthcare industry is seeking to improve healthcare access in rural areas is through Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage is a type of health insurance offered by private organizations, similar to HMO or PPO. In 2024, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) plan to provide more comprehensive benefits to Medicare Advantage enrollees in rural areas. These benefits include regular checkups with medical professionals, preventive care, screenings, and reduced out-of-pocket costs.
Another way in which the healthcare industry is preparing for better healthcare access in rural areas is through the increasing usage of telemedicine. Telemedicine is the provision of healthcare remotely using technology such as video conferencing, remote monitoring, and smartphone applications. Patients in rural areas can now access medical professionals via telemedicine, which is an inexpensive and efficient way of providing healthcare services. The usage of telemedicine in healthcare has grown exponentially in recent times, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
To further improve healthcare access in rural areas, Congress is also pushing for legislation that aims to motivate medical professionals to practice in these areas. Incentives will be provided to medical professionals who choose to work in rural areas. The government is also looking into ways of improving public transportation to make healthcare access easier for people in rural areas.
The healthcare industry is also looking to improve healthcare access in rural areas by expanding the use of community health clinics. These clinics provide primary care services, dental and mental health services, and health education programs to people in rural areas. Rural areas have a higher percentage of uninsured and underinsured individuals than urban areas, making these community health clinics especially relevant.
Conclusion:
Rural Healthcare and Medicare Advantage: 2024 Access Improvements may hold the key to better healthcare access for people living in rural areas. Healthcare access has always been a cause for concern for people living in rural areas. However, with the increasing utilization of telemedicine, incentives for medical professionals, and expanded community health clinics, healthcare access is expected to improve. The improvements in Medicare Advantage benefits could also be instrumental in making healthcare more affordable and accessible for people in rural areas. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, we can look forward to even more accessible and affordable healthcare services for rural residents.
