Colorado Delegation Shines at NASEM Workshop: Advancing Rural Health Solutions

Dr. Mark Deutchman recently shared insights at a workshop aimed at improving healthcare in rural areas. Held in Washington, D.C., this event, part of the “Advancing Diagnostic Excellence in Rural Areas” initiative, focused on strategies to enhance diagnostic practices and reduce health disparities.

Dr. Deutchman, who works at the University of Colorado Anschutz, discussed how integrating tools like telehealth and point-of-care ultrasound can greatly benefit rural patients. These technologies improve communication and continuous care but work best with the strong relationships that local physicians build with their communities. He noted that generalist doctors in rural areas often provide coordinated care that technology alone cannot replicate.

Joining him were Dr. Meggan Grant-Nierman, a family doctor and educator in Salida, Colorado, and Kevin Stansbury, CEO of Lincoln Health in Hugo, Colorado. Together, they highlighted the unique aspects and challenges of practicing medicine in rural settings.

Recent studies show that patients in rural areas often face longer wait times and less access to specialized care. A report from the National Health Service reveals rural patients are 25% more likely to report delays in receiving necessary care compared to those in urban settings.

The insights shared at the workshop are crucial as healthcare systems strive to minimize these gaps. The talk is available for viewing on the NASEM website for anyone interested in learning more about improving healthcare in rural communities.

For more detailed analysis, check out the full session here or explore the National Academies of Sciences for additional resources.

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