www.youtube.com – WJTV 12 News – 2023-07-28 09:42:01

SUMMARY: Hospitals across the country, particularly rural hospitals, have been struggling financially and the pandemic has only exacerbated the issue. Data from the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform revealed that 150 rural hospitals closed between 2005 and 2019. In Mississippi, 34 out of 74 rural hospitals are facing financial difficulties, with 25 of them at immediate risk of closure within the next few years. The State Department of Health is implementing measures to address the situation, such as requiring hospitals to provide a 30-day notice before shutting down a service. A grant program worth $104 million has been approved to assist struggling hospitals, with funds expected to be distributed in the coming month. The department is also using public health, science, and data to inform the legislature's decision-making process related to healthcare. However, there are concerns about an insufficient number of beds and staff to handle potential healthcare challenges such as a severe flu season or a surge in COVID-19 cases. Urban hospitals could potentially experience an influx of patients from rural areas. The state's high poverty and uninsured rates contribute to negative health outcomes.

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