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What Cuts in Federal COVID-19 Funding Could Mean for Rural Communities

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has widened the health disparities between urban and rural communities as rural populations face more limited health care capacities and worse COVID-19 outcomes than their urban counterparts. When this article was written, congress was debating continuing federal funds for free COVID-19 testing, vaccines, and treatment. In this article, we discuss the potential consequences rural communities may experience should such funding fail to be approved. Peer-reviewed literature and our research indicate these budget cuts could harm rural communities' financial distress, risk of severe disease outcomes, and trust in health care systems, making continued funding for public health resources critical for vulnerable rural communities.

Source: Health Equity

DOI: 10.1089/heq.2022.0076

Authors: Sienna Ruiz, Uzoma C. Okere, Michelle Eggers, Catina O'Leary, Beth Prusacyk, Ashley J. Housten

Institution: Washington University in St. Louis

Language: English

Topic: Public Health Policies and Education

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $950