Bill

HR 1191

Supporting Access to Rural Community Hospitals Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Mike Flood and 1 co-sponsor

HR 1191 boosts rural healthcare by increasing funding for community hospitals, adjusting Medicare rates, expanding telehealth, and supporting workforce development.

Introduced in House

WeVote Research Nonpartisan

Bill Summary · HR 1191

Summary of HR 1191: Supporting Access to Rural Community Hospitals Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The Supporting Access to Rural Community Hospitals Act of 2025 (HR 1191) aims to enhance the viability and accessibility of healthcare services in rural areas by providing targeted support to rural community hospitals. The bill seeks to address the unique challenges faced by these facilities, which often struggle with financial sustainability and access to essential medical services for their communities.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the bill is not provided, typical provisions in similar legislation may include:

Increased Funding: Proposals for increased federal funding or grants to rural hospitals to support operational costs and infrastructure improvements.
Medicare Reimbursement Adjustments: Adjustments to Medicare reimbursement rates to ensure that rural hospitals receive adequate compensation for services rendered.
Telehealth Expansion: Initiatives to promote telehealth services, allowing rural residents to access healthcare remotely, thereby reducing travel burdens.
Workforce Development: Programs aimed at recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals in rural areas, addressing workforce shortages.

Who Would Be Affected

The primary beneficiaries of HR 1191 would include:

Rural Community Hospitals: Facilities in rural areas that provide essential healthcare services to local populations.
Patients in Rural Areas: Individuals living in rural communities who rely on these hospitals for medical care, including emergency services, primary care, and specialized treatments.
Healthcare Providers: Medical professionals working in rural hospitals who may benefit from improved working conditions and support programs.

Legislative Process and Timeline

Introduced: The bill was introduced in the House on February 11, 2025.
Referred to Committee: On the same day, it was referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means for further consideration.

Related Legislation

HR 1191 has a companion bill in the Senate, S 521, which may parallel its provisions and intent, indicating a broader legislative effort to support rural healthcare.

Conclusion

HR 1191 represents a significant legislative effort to bolster healthcare access in rural communities, addressing critical issues faced by rural hospitals. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be essential to monitor its developments and potential impacts on rural healthcare systems.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.