Rural residents, particularly women, encounter major healthcare access challenges, with many lacking timely access to medical facilities, which increases health risks. A significant percentage of rural counties are maternity care deserts, with fewer than half of rural women within 30 minutes of perinatal services. Maternal and infant mortality rates in these areas are alarmingly high compared to urban counterparts. To combat disparities, expanding the healthcare workforce is essential, as highlighted by the need for over 202,800 additional physicians nationwide to ensure everyone receives equitable healthcare access.
Maternal and infant mortality rates are significantly higher in remote areas, with higher postpartum hemorrhage rates and blood transfusions during labor compared to urban settings.
Less than half of rural women live within a 30-minute drive to the nearest hospital offering perinatal services, highlighting the dire accessibility issues.
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