>>New State Report Highlight Disparities in Healthcare for Rural Residents
(Rocky Mount, VA) -- A new report released by the Virginia General Assembly’s Select Committee on Advancing Rural Healthcare shines a spotlight on the challenges faced by rural Virginians, with transportation being a major barrier to seeing a doctor. Thomas Cage with more.Preview: Voicer Script:
Officials with Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital in Rocky Mount agree there are transportation challenges in Franklin County and say the need for collaboration could be a major step to improving healthcare accessibility. The hospital has expanded its services, including robotic surgery, to enhance what they can offer to residents. Delegate Rodney Willett tells WDBJ he plans to introduce legislation addressing telehealth access and target obesity in rural areas and he hopes that bipartisan efforts can improve rural healthcare in Virginia.