Virginia's rural areas face significant challenges in healthcare. A group of state lawmakers from both parties has been working diligently to address these issues. They have spent the past year studying various aspects and are now preparing to present their findings and recommendations to the Virginia General Assembly in 2025.

Key Areas of Focus

Transportation, telehealth services, and hiring more healthcare workers are among the important topics they aim to tackle. Committee Chair Rodney Willett (D-Henrico) grew up in rural Prince Edward County and recalls the difficulties of accessing medical and dental care as a child due to lack of good transportation. When the committee traveled around the state to gather feedback, transportation emerged as the biggest concern. To assist, they plan to propose programs to help people reach their medical appointments.Regarding telehealth, the committee envisions creating healthcare hubs in places like pharmacies and schools. They also want to enable phone medical visits in areas with weak internet service for video calls.The shortage of healthcare workers is a significant concern. They suggest grant programs and childcare support to attract and retain medical staff.

Obesity and Medicaid

One recommendation is to lower the threshold for accessing weight loss drugs on Medicaid. This could have a significant impact on addressing the issue of obesity in rural areas.

Maternal Health

Maternal health is another crucial topic. During a recent event with Governor Glenn Youngkin, it was discussed in detail. In 2021, there were 64 pregnancy-associated deaths in Virginia. Experts estimate that 80% of these were medically preventable. Among the governor's goals to address this issue are an executive directive to report actionable data on maternal mortality, expanding doula and community health worker programs, and allowing midwives from other states to work here. The combination of accessible care, telemedicine, and mobile services, along with leveraging managed care organizations to build the workforce, is seen as essential to closing the gap.Many of these recommendations will rely on finding the necessary funding. This will come together on Wednesday when Youngkin kicks off the budget process with a presentation of his proposed amendments.It is clear that improving healthcare in rural Virginia requires a comprehensive approach that addresses multiple issues. The efforts of these state lawmakers hold great promise for the future of healthcare in these areas.