U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Dave Joyce (R-OH) on April 4 cosponsored bipartisan legislation that would provide more support to primary care providers in America’s rural and underserved areas through accredited continuing medical education and clinical support.
If enacted, the Improving Access to Health Care in Rural and Underserved Areas Act, H.R. 7383, which is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV), would establish a program ensuring access to accredited continuing medical education for primary care physicians and other healthcare providers at federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics that would provide training and clinical support for primary care providers to practice at their full scope and improve access to care for patients in underserved areas, according to the text of the bill.
“Far too often, Americans living in rural and underserved communities across the country are unable to access quality specialized care, and the nationwide physician shortage has only compounded this public health emergency,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said. “Our bipartisan legislation will ensure that primary care providers in rural and hard to reach areas are equipped with the training and resources required to provide comprehensive care by enhancing continuing medical education in areas reflective of their communities’ health needs.”
If enacted, H.R. 7383 would create a five-year pilot program that provides a funding opportunity for up to 100 Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Rural Health Clinics to boost capacity in specific areas of medical need within their communities, enhancing skills in these areas and expanding access to care, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“All Americans should have access to the medical care they need, no matter where they live,” said Rep. Joyce, co-chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus. “Unfortunately, those who live in rural communities often struggle to access affordable, quality health care.
“Where you live should not be a barrier to receiving quality medical care,” Rep. Joyce said. “Our bipartisan bill will support health centers, clinics and other providers in rural areas across the country, and ensure the Americans they serve have access to the high quality medical professionals they deserve.”
H.R. 7383 has garnered support from numerous organizations, including the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs, Families USA, the National Association for Rural Mental Health, and the National Association of Community Health Centers, among many others.