What is a Rural Health Clinic?

A rural health clinic is a certified facility in underserved rural areas that receives enhanced Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements to improve primary care access. These clinics must be located in non-urbanized areas with healthcare shortage designations and employ nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or certified nurse midwives to provide essential medical services.

Why rural health clinics matter

• Addresses healthcare shortages: Brings essential medical services to areas where healthcare providers are scarce
• Improves rural health outcomes: Provides preventive care and chronic disease management to populations that often experience health disparities
• Sustains rural healthcare: Enhanced reimbursement rates help clinics remain financially viable in low-population areas

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help you locate rural health clinics in your area, understand the services they provide, and navigate Medicare or Medicaid enrollment if needed. Advocates can also assist with coordinating specialty referrals and arranging transportation to healthcare appointments.

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