Access to healthcare in rural America is hindered by numerous barriers, impacting around 60 million residents. Limited provider availability, higher rates of chronic health issues, and the closure of rural hospitals contribute to poorer health outcomes, evidenced by elevated mortality rates compared to urban areas. Financial challenges are exacerbated by a higher uninsured rate and long travel distances to care facilities, while inadequate internet access restricts the effectiveness of telehealth services. To overcome these challenges, a multifaceted approach is needed, including the expansion of broadband and the integration of various healthcare technologies.

Rural Healthcare Crisis: 60 Million Americans Face Access Barriers MedCity News

UnitedHealth Group's recovery from a significant ransomware attack on its Change Healthcare subsidiary is ongoing, requiring a complete overhaul of its computer systems, according to Chief Information Security Officer Steven Martin. Speaking at the Mandiant Worldwide Information Security Exchange, Martin revealed that only the cables were retained from the previous infrastructure, as the company replaced all routers, switches, and computing systems to enhance security. The attack, linked to the ALPHV group and occurring in February, resulted in profound disruptions for healthcare providers and ransom payments estimated at $22 million. After months of intensive effort and collaboration with Mandiant's incident response team, the restoration process is nearing completion, with Martin describing the recovery as a long-term commitment akin to running a marathon.

UnitedHealth Group Rebuilds After Devastating Ransomware Attack Cyberscoop

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has authorized Starlink and T-Mobile to provide satellite-to-phone services in Hurricane Helene-affected areas, specifically enabling emergency alerts and basic texting capabilities for T-Mobile users in North Carolina. While SpaceX is currently operational in the region, they caution that the service is not ready for full commercial availability and will be offered on a best-effort basis due to the incomplete satellite constellation. The FCC's approval is part of a broader strategy to ensure communication during emergencies and includes temporary measures for other providers. Elon Musk has acknowledged the FCC's quick approval but criticized the agency for denying Starlink's request for $885 million in broadband funding, which he believes could have further supported recovery efforts in North Carolina.

FCC Empowers Starlink and T-Mobile for Hurricane Helene Emergency Communications Ars Technica

A recent AMA study reveals that office-based physicians spend over five hours on electronic health record (EHR) tasks for every eight hours spent with patients, highlighting a significant contributor to physician burnout. In response, the AMA has allocated nearly $250,000 in grants to five organizations to improve EHR workflows and enhance physician well-being and patient care. Since 2019, the AMA's EHR Use Research Grant Program has funded over $2.25 million to 28 organizations to explore EHR-related challenges. Notable 2024 grant recipients, including Stanford University and Yale University School of Medicine, will research various critical EHR issues, such as improving problem list accuracy in federally qualified health centers.

AMA Invests $250,000 to Alleviate EHR Burdens on Physicians American Medical Association