Support measures to increase rural access and equity

Measures that would stimulate and incentivize rural access to healthcare, include but are not limited to increasing the Medicaid provider reimbursement rate, physician student loan forgiveness, expanding rural broadband access for purposes of telemedicine, and increasing the state tobacco tax (including for vaping products) to provide funds for rural healthcare. We support efforts to increase rural access and equity.

Current Georgia Legislation:

  • Senator Steve Gooch (R-51) introduced Senate Bill 193 to authorize the Department of Community Health to determine locations eligible for state or federal funding programs administered by the state for improved broadband services. The bill was read and referred to the Senate Committee on Regulated Industries and Utilities.