Frank Pallone: “I rise in support of H.R. 2493, the Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act. H.R. 2493 reauthorizes programs…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 2493, the Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act. H.R. 2493 reauthorizes programs at the Health Resources & Services Administration that increase access to healthcare services in rural communities. Rural communities often face significant challenges to accessing quality healthcare, including provider shortages, hospital closures, and long travel times to medical facilities. Rural communities also often face higher rates of poverty and unemployment which can contribute to poor health outcomes. The community-based programs extended by this bill address the unique needs of the rural communities they serve by collaborating with local networks and partnering organizations. This includes implementing disease prevention and health promotion activities and enhancing healthcare delivery. The programs also include the Healthy Rural Hometown Initiative, a targeted program that works to address the underlying factors contributing to the five leading causes of death in the United States. This is an important bill, and I am hopeful that it will gain strong bipartisan support.”