Rural Health Challenges Focus Of Forum With DC And Local Experts

Press Release

Representative Kathy Hochul (NY-26) today convened a roundtable discussion with leaders in the field of rural health care. The panelists and Rep. Hochul discussed ways to improve access to health care in rural areas and how to expand professional development opportunities for heath care workers. Participants included Dr. Paul Moore of the Health Resources and Services Administration; representatives of the VA and the New York State Area Health and Education Center; and officials from Wyoming, Genesee, Livingston, and Orleans Counties.

"One of my top priorities is improving access to community health care in the rural areas of Western New York. Legislation like the Veterans' Telehealth & Telemedicine Improvement Act, which I am proud to have introduced, take a firm step in the direction of addressing the issues discussed here today," said Hochul. "I appreciate the participants in today's discussion for sharing their concerns and ideas about rural health with me, and I look forward to working with them closely to tackle the problems facing rural communities in my district."

"We are pleased that Congresswoman Hochul is giving rural healthcare workers who work on the front lines every day an opportunity to speak at her roundtable at Wyoming County Community Hospital. We look forward to working with the Congresswoman as she further pursues a collaborative effort designed to enhance and expand health care opportunities for patients," said Don Eichenauer, CEO of the Wyoming County Community Health System.

Rep. Hochul has previously introduced the Veterans' Telehealth & Telemedicine Improvement Act, which aims to improve and expand the VA telehealth initiative and provide veterans in rural areas with easier access to medical care. Hochul has also written letters of support on behalf of the New York State Area Health and Education Center's efforts to establish the Upstate Telehealth Network, in association with the existing Western New York Rural Broadband Health Network.

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