Roughly 20 percent of the U.S. population resides in rural areas, and over 10 percent of the population lives in poverty. These individuals tend to feel the weight of provider shortages and high costs, which can result in increased prevalence of chronic conditions and other challenges more intensely than the rest of the population, not to mention the additional barriers that limit their access. In turn, rural populations fall behind on care. It’s time to rethink how, where, and when care is delivered in rural areas. By using digital and virtual solutions to address member needs in their homes and communities, long-term health outcomes can be improved, and health disparities can be addressed.
Device-enabled virtual care leveraging remote monitoring tools broadens access to care by meet