Hello,

24/7 access to care is essential for all Americans – no matter where they live. One of the Coalition’s biggest priorities is highlighting the importance of 24/7 access to care in rural areas, and finding solutions to issues that threaten this care. Our latest report shares crucial new findings about the path forward for rural hospital access:

A majority (55%) of rural hospitals that closed between 2011 and 2021 were standalone hospitals that lacked the support of a larger hospital system.
One in three hospitals that were at high risk of closure were no longer high-risk following merger or acquisition. Two in three hospitals that were at high risk of closure were no longer high-risk following affiliation.
Integration can also benefit rural hospitals by addressing staffing shortages, updating technology and standardizing care protocols which all can improve overall patient outcomes.

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Although not necessarily the right choice for all hospitals, aligning with a larger health system can offer a lifeline for rural hospitals that protects patient access to critical, around-the-clock care. Though partnerships and integrations, rural hospitals can continue being cornerstones of their rural communities.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

- The Coalition to Strengthen America's Healthcare