New Opportunities for Progress in Indiana's Rural Health Care Crisis
By Cameual Wright, MD, MBA, President of CareSource Indiana
As I travel through Indiana's rural communities, I often hear stories that highlight the urgent need for improved health care access. One story that sticks with me is about a single mother from a small town who had to drive over an hour just to find a doctor who could prescribe her son's asthma medication. This is not just an anecdote; it reflects a larger crisis affecting many Hoosiers. According to the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), nearly 30% of rural residents live in areas designated as health professional shortage areas, leading to significant gaps in care.
Governor Mike Braun’s health care initiatives aim to address these systemic challenges and improve access for Indiana residents. A key component of his agenda focuses on tackling the pressing rural health care crisis, which affects many communities across the state. As part of his “Freedom and Opportunity Agenda," the governor pledges to “increase access to health care for all Hoosiers, including those in rural areas, by embracing technology, supporting local providers, and empowering patients.”
The time for a renewed push for increased access in rural communities is now. We know the challenges are significant, with a shortage of primary care physicians and limited resources. A report from the ISDH indicates 67 of 92 Indiana counties have a “Medically Underserved Area or Population” designation.
We will need bold and innovative solutions to address these workforce and resource limitations. This needs to be a top priority not just for CareSource, but for the entire health care industry.
CareSource is passionate about improving access to health care in rural Indiana. Our support for this initiative is a part of our long-standing pledge to make a difference to our members.
CareSource is dedicated to tackling these challenges head-on. One key initiative is Project ECHO, a telehealth program that leverages Zoom to connect in-network providers, expanding access to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for patients battling substance use disorders.
Additionally, in 2024, CareSource announced a partnership with Marian University to establish the CareSource Rural Health Endowed Scholarship. With our initial investment of $250,000, we aim to provide financial support to medical students committed to serving in rural Indiana towns. The first scholarship was awarded in the fall of 2024, and we are excited about the potential impact on future health care providers in underserved areas.
As much as increased funding and awareness is critical for improving rural health, innovation will be needed to bridge the gap in health care access throughout Indiana.
Technology plays a key role in this effort. The Indiana Connectivity Program aims to increase the use of telehealth services, while “Teladoc” offers care through phone or video consultations, eliminating the need for patients to travel long distances to access medical facilities.
Leveraging the health care provider partners, we have in rural communities will also be essential. CareSource has been supportive of paying pharmacists for expanded services that are withing their scope of practice, and we are excited about the possibilities of working with mobile integrated health care units to deliver services to individuals who are not able to leave their homes.
CareSource also applauds the work of the Indiana Rural Health Association as it tirelessly advocates for the health and health care of our state’s rural residents. We are honored to add our voice to those calling for renewed attention to Indiana’s underserved areas and populations.
Governor Braun’s pledge to increase health care options in rural Indiana will benefit all Hoosiers. By sharing stories of real people, supporting innovative solutions and committing to the future of our rural health care workforce, CareSource is devoted to a healthier future for all of us.