The American Hospital Association recently commissioned The Future of Rural Health Care task force to work with legislators to help draft policies to address the healthcare challenges in rural communities. This task force will meet multiple times over the next year beginning this month in Washington, DC.
Anthony Powers, President of Baptist Health Corbin, was one of the 28 healthcare leaders nationwide and the only leader from Kentucky chosen to serve on this task force. “The challenges faced by rural hospitals are complex, requiring policymakers, providers and communities to work together, innovate and leverage unique strategies to pave the way for the future of rural health care,” said Powers.
“Rural hospitals are not just access points for care, they are cornerstones of care for the communities they serve,” said AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack. “In spite of their unique challenges, providing access to quality care where and when their patients need it will always be the goal of rural hospitals.”
While rural hospitals continue to struggle with low patient volumes and geographic isolation, they also must confront issues such as economic fluctuations, increased regulatory burden and the opioid epidemic. “I am excited and honored to be able to serve on this important task force and help represent our rural communities in Kentucky,” said Powers.
