Nashville Standard

Rep. Mark Green, M.D., a member of the GOP Doctors Caucus and the Congressional Bipartisan Rural Health Caucus, has reintroduced two significant bills aimed at improving rural healthcare in the 119th Congress. The proposed legislation addresses longstanding challenges faced by rural communities in accessing emergency medical services.

Discussing the Rural ER Access Act, Rep. Green stated, "As a former Army doctor and emergency room physician, I understand the complex needs of our rural communities. Americans living outside metropolitan areas frequently face inadequate access to emergency medical services." He emphasized that existing federal regulations are "dangerous and often life-threatening," advocating for their repeal to improve hospital systems' reach in underserved areas.

The bill has received support from the American College of Emergency Physicians.

In relation to the Rural Health Care Access Act of 2025, Rep. Green explained, "Critical Access Hospitals are often the last line of medical care in rural and underserved communities." His proposal seeks to eliminate a rule that restricts hospitals from obtaining Critical Access Hospital (CAH) designation if they are within 35 miles of another CAH. This change aims to enhance financial stability for rural hospitals and maintain essential services.

The National Rural Health Association and several other organizations have endorsed this bill. Alan Morgan, CEO of The National Rural Health Association, remarked on its significance: "This legislation will provide rural areas the flexibility needed to enhance health care accessibility."

Dr. Wendy Long from the Tennessee Hospital Association highlighted financial difficulties faced by Tennessee's rural hospitals: "THA appreciates Congressman Green’s leadership on the Rural Healthcare Access Act which could enable more rural hospitals to qualify for vital CAH benefits."

Alison Haddock from the American College of Emergency Physicians praised Rep. Green's initiatives: "These bills will help stabilize and preserve access to rural emergency care."

Stanton Elseroad from the Tennessee College of Emergency Physicians pointed out that Tennessee has lost numerous hospitals since 2010: "75% of the remaining rural hospitals are in financial trouble."

According to reports, Tennessee is among states with significant hospital closures, with an estimated 45 percent at risk.

Rep. Green’s efforts focus on expanding free-standing emergency departments through these legislative measures, addressing critical needs in healthcare accessibility for America's rural populations.