The Changing Landscape of Community Health Centers in Rural America: A Commentary on Federal Policy Developments

Abstract: Community health centers in rural communities provide primary care and other health services that are essential, particularly given the closures and reductions of services by rural hospitals. The centers play a critical role in delivering affordable and accessible care as part of the safety-net health care system for low-income, publicly insured, and uninsured patients. In this commentary, we highlight several key considerations related to community health centers in rural communities and reflect on the sustainability of the centers, given the current focus on budgetary cuts and changing landscape of funding streams. Recent federal policy changes undermine Americans' social safety-net services through community health centers, particularly for rural communities, putting millions at risk of losing access to the care they depend on. Now, more than ever, rural communities must use their collective voice to fight for access to health care and lift up the essential role of community health centers.