Improving The Rural ED: 3 Steps To Better Case Management
Rural healthcare centers can improve case management and invest in the community with enhanced payment models and workforce training programs.
The State Of Rural Health Today And Tomorrow
Rural health clinics face down the barrel of a multitude of challenges. Many rural care centers square off against high closure rates from workforce shortages to shrinking inpatient volume. To adapt to the changing healthcare landscape while remaining profitable, country health clinics must improve overall case management. Ensuring patient and provider satisfaction hinges on enhanced payment models, workforce training programs, and focused investment in the community’s overall health.
Supporting insurance coverage and access to payment
A recent study notes that residents of rural counties lack insurance at higher rates than city dwellers living in urban areas. Rural households with infants experienced a disparity of health coverage, reporting even lower insurance coverage counts than fellow rural residents. As a result, many rural communities encounter a limited supply of low-cost or pro bono healthcare resources. Some experts suggest that increased Medicare and Medicaid payments capacity promote access to healthcare, providing patients with affordable care. Care centers can create a payment strategy individualized to patients with additional financing options such as government assistance programs. A rural care team dedicated to working with patients finances empowers access to vital healthcare services.
Underscoring the importance of comprehensive workforce training
Nearly 60% of the time, observes the latest data, primary care professional shortages are found in rural communities. A regular source of primary care is a key indicator of healthcare access. Without sufficient personnel trained to manage patient experiences, rural hospitals fail to provide comprehensive care for the community. Some experts suggest prioritizing workforce training to maximize and support current employees to combat workforce shortages. Strategies include using alternative providers, working in interprofessional teams, and offering clinic time outside of regular work hours.
Investing in community health
To achieve a high standard of care, medical providers must invest in the community’s overall health. Each rural community experiences unique challenges. Consequently, solutions must be tailored to the area. New technology such as telehealth shows promises to access questions in rural healthcare. Doctors can build a foundation to provide robust medical services across underserved regions for years to come by exploring modern solutions.
Empowering the future of rural health
Providers combat high closure rates by prioritizing improved case management. Boosting satisfaction looks like working with patients on payment options, offering workforce training, and investing entirely in rural communities. Rural medical centers experience unique challenges, but quality care for the community surmounts any barrier.