Rural Hospital Closures Threaten Access: Solutions to Preserve Care in Local Communities

The American Hospital Association today released a new report highlighting the variety of causes that resulted in 136 rural hospital closures from 2010 to 2021, and a record 19 closures in 2020 alone. These include many longstanding pressures, such as low reimbursement, staffing shortages, low patient volume and regulatory barriers, as well as the continued financial challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, expenses for labor, drugs, supplies and equipment have also increased dramatically, ultimately causing difficulties in maintaining access to care for people in rural communities.

Videos of Hospital Leaders Sharing Challenges, Need For Additional Support
 

Julie Yaroch, D.O., president of ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital in Adrian, Mich

Sean Fadale, president and CEO of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home in Gloversville, N.Y.