On October 24, 2023, NYHealth hosted a webinar on the needs that rural New Yorkers face, as well as opportunities to promote healthy communities.
In September 2023, the Office of the New York State Comptroller released a report examining demographic, economic, and quality of living trends in 10 rural counties in New York State. The report outlines unique challenges faced by rural communities: declining and aging populations; shrinking labor forces; housing supply shortages; and lower rates of broadband access. It highlights related health care and food access barriers, including shortages of health care providers, limited food access points, and a need to travel long distances for both health care and food.
A number of federal and State solutions address these challenges and build on the strengths and assets of rural communities, including local partnerships and economic development initiatives. Speakers discussed health and socioeconomic data trends and comparisons; federal, State, and local policy approaches; programs operated by local health care and community-based organizations; and the role of partnerships like rural health networks.
Panelists were:
- Maria Doulis, Deputy Comptroller, Budget and Policy Analysis, Office of New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli
- Joshua Simons, Policy Director, Office of Budget and Policy Analysis, Office of New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli
- Alison Coates, Vice President, New York State Association for Rural Health
- Claire Parde, Executive Director, The Healthcare Consortium