Hinds Today

U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith and Jeff Merkley have introduced new legislation aimed at permanently authorizing the Office of Rural Health within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The bipartisan bill, known as the Rural Health Focus Act (S.403), seeks to build on efforts to address rural health needs.

The CDC Office of Rural Health was initially established under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023. Both senators are members of the Senate Appropriations Committee and have been instrumental in advocating for this office's creation.

Senator Hyde-Smith emphasized the challenges faced by people in rural areas, particularly in accessing basic healthcare services. She stated, "People living in rural areas, like so many do in Mississippi, continue to face disparities and challenges in accessing basic health care. A big part of the problem is the lack of understanding about the severity of the problem in urban areas and among too many policymakers."

Senator Merkley highlighted the unique hurdles faced by rural communities, noting that "so often, we rely on one-size-fits-all solutions to health challenges." He added that their bipartisan bill would support providing crucial health resources for these communities.

Statutory authorization for this office would enable Congress to offer regular funding and better coordination of rural health programs. For fiscal year 2024, Congress allocated $5 million to support this initiative.

The proposed legislation also calls for appointing a director for the Office of Rural Health who would oversee various responsibilities. This marks another attempt by Hyde-Smith and Merkley after introducing similar legislation during the 118th Congress.