Skip to main content
Rural Health Information Hub
Rural Health Information Hub

Rural Health
News by Topic: Health occupations

Jun 18, 2024 - Notice of final rule from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposing amending its regulations governing the VA Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP). Changes include implementing the mandates of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, which expands the number of scholarships available to those who are pursuing degrees or training in mental health programs. This rule is effective July 18, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
Jun 13, 2024 - Announces the awarding of over $11 million to 15 organizations to establish new rural residency programs. The programs will increase rural training opportunities for obstetrics and gynecology. Also discusses previous funding for rural healthcare.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Jun 13, 2024 - Discusses the lack of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) in rural Minnesota. Highlights solutions to increase access through training and statewide protocols.
Source: MinnPost
Jun 12, 2024 - The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is accepting nominations for appointment to the Physician-Focused Payment Model Technical Advisory Committee (PTAC), which provides comments and recommendations to the Secretary of Health and Human Services on physician payment models. Nominations are due by July 10, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
Jun 12, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) is seeking comments to guide the development of an educational campaign utilizing community health workers (CHWs) to increase the cultural and linguistic competency efforts related to public health vaccines. Includes background information and presents key questions. Comments are due by July 11, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
Jun 11, 2024 - Outlines factors contributing to a shortage of primary care physicians in rural Idaho, including medical debt. Provides overview of the Rural Physician Incentive Program (RPIP), which offers loan repayment over the course of four years for physicians practicing in rural communities. Notes that 114 physicians have participated in the program since 2013, with 91% continuing to practice in a rural community after program conclusion.
Source: Idaho Capital Sun
Jun 6, 2024 - Highlights a shortage of psychiatrists and mental health services in rural north Florida. Discusses services offered by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), which reaches rural populations through a variety of free online support groups. Explores additional efforts to increase access to services in rural areas, including the integration of mental health services into primary care and a nonprofit clinic network staffed by psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Source: WCTV
Jun 5, 2024 - Applications are open for the Rural Nursing Recruitment & Retention Program, which provides eligible healthcare facilities with funds to incentivize nurses to work in rural Texas. Awarded facilities can give $15,000 to nurses who agree to work fulltime for at least three years.
Source: ValleyCentral.com
Jun 1, 2024 - Highlights a report calling for increased involvement by primary care doctors in addressing high rates of social isolation and loneliness. Notes the significant health impacts of social disconnection and features perspectives from doctors on screening and referrals. Discusses the need for rural partnerships including healthcare, churches, and community-based organizations.
Source: ABC News
May 31, 2024 - Highlights a new federally-funded initiative designed to address dental workforce shortages in Maryland, affecting primarily low-income and rural areas. Outlines rural-related barriers to oral healthcare including lack of transportation to appointments.
Source: Maryland Matters