PTuC1 - Protecting Primary Care in Rural Communities

Session Description: In 2024, nearly 600 rural health centers provided care to over 10 million people with 38 million patient visits, including 2.3 million virtual visits. Health centers are essential primary care providers and medical homes in rural communities across the country. Rural communities face growing challenges in sustaining access to primary care, including workforce shortages, hospital and clinic closures, and financial pressures that threaten access to care.

The implementation of H.R. 1 is projected to create additional Medicaid cuts, which may increase the number of uninsured patients and intensify the threat to communities access to quality care. At this critical moment, Community Health Centers are uniquely positioned to serve as essential partners and providers in shaping state and federal policy initiatives that protect and strengthen rural health care.

This session will provide participants with up-to-date information on resources and funding opportunities addressing key rural health priorities, including workforce development, care coordination, behavioral health integration, telehealth access, and reimbursement. A panel of national stakeholders and Community Health Center leaders will share insights on policy and program developments, offering practical strategies for sustaining and expanding primary care access in rural communities.