The Promoting Health in Rural Areas Act of 1999, our comprehensive bipartisan package is designed to expand access, increase choice and enhance quality care in rural America. For starters, the Promoting Health in Rural Areas Act of 1999 would direct more resources to smaller rural hospitals and make the federal formula system more equitable between rural and health care providers. Plus, it recognizes the hardship many rural areas face when it becomes necessary to attract a qualified health professional to relocate to their community. My bill would allow communities to receive assistance for up to 12 months in advance of a known retirement or resignation. Separately, the bill ensures that medical residents aren't discriminated against for training in rural health clinics.
Technology plays an integral role in modern medicine.
People living outside of metropolitan areas can have access to specialists without traveling long distances. Telemedicine is a promising tool to bring medical expertise to rural residents. My bill would expand Medicare reimbursement for such technology in rural areas. Plus, it would create a grant program to help communities establish an infrastructure for telemedicine applications. Iowans can rest assured that as long as I am in the Senate, I'll continue watching out for Rural America.