>>Shortage of Doctors, Lack of Broadband Means Rural Americans Struggle for Quality Healthcare
(Undated) -- Those living in rural Virginia may die earlier than their urban neighbors. Rebecca Hughes with the details.Preview: Wrap Script:
A new study from the CDC shows rural Americans die from preventable diseases as well as unintentional injuries like overdoses more than those living in urban areas. Dr. Cecil [[sess-el]] Bennett says it's because of the lack of doctors and nurses. He adds that even with student loan payback programs, there is no financial incentive to practice medicine in rural areas.Preview: He points out that telehealth visits can't help solve the problem either because many rural areas do not have broadband access.
Additional Audio:
A new CDC study shows people living in rural areas of Virginia and other states are more likely to die at a younger age than those in urban areas. Dr. Cecil [[sess-el]] Bennett says not even technology can help address the shortage of healthcare providers in those areas.Preview: He adds that many people in rural areas need to drive to see a doctor or nurse practicioner which can add a barrier for treatment. He says even small private practices in less urban areas struggle to hire practicioners because of a shortage of qualified professionals.