(Family Features) Rural America is experiencing a mental health emergency. For residents of rural communities, there is evidence of higher rates of mental illness compared to those in urban communities. Suicide rates are 64-68% higher in rural communities compared to urban areas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yet people who live in rural areas are less likely to access mental health services.
According to findings from a survey of people in rural areas conducted by Russell Research on behalf of nonprofit mental health advocacy organization Rural Minds, a majority (94%) of respondents believe it’s important for policymakers to prioritize greater access to medicines that treat mental illness, yet more than half reported being unfamiliar with the impact policymakers’ decisions have on the development of new mental health treatments.
Compounding the mental health challenges facing rural Americans, 82% of respondents have one or more barriers to accessing health care and mental health treatments. Largely because of distance and availability, 85% would rather get medicines from a local pharmacy than make an appointment at a doctor’s office.
This is why legislation like the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures (EPIC) Act, being considered in Congress, is essential for many people in rural areas. This legislation supports research and development for “small molecule” medicines – which are basically pills – so they are easier to produce and access in rural areas with limited health care services. “Small molecule” medicines can reach the brain easier, which is beneficial in treating mental illness.
Consider some of the common barriers to health care in rural communities.
Costs and Other Lifestyle Barriers
According to the survey, factors like out-of-pocket costs such as copays, deductibles and health insurance premiums affect rural residents’ ability to access health care and medical treatments. Some people lack medical insurance altogether. In addition, self-imposed barriers, including a cultural reluctance to ask for help and a lack of trust, along with isolation, exacerbate the problem.
Lack of Awareness of Patient Assistance Programs
Many rural residents are unaware of programs that exist to help pay for medicine, including the Medicine Assistance Tool, a searchable database of patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. Less than 3 in 5 rural residents know about programs that improve access and affordability of medications and only half are aware of the Medication Prescription Payment Plan.
Long Distances from Medical Care
Physical distance also plays a factor in accessing medical services. Approximately 25% of rural residents indicate the distance to medical specialists is a barrier to accessing health care and medical treatments.
Limited Access to Physicians
There are 20% fewer primary care physicians in rural areas and a shortage of mental health providers – approximately 65% of rural counties do not have psychiatrists. In rural communities, it’s estimated there are 68 physicians per 100,000 people while urban areas have closer to 84 physicians to serve the same number of residents.
Poor Internet Service
Internet service in rural areas is often poor to nonexistent. While the percentage of rural residents with internet access is growing, the Federal Communications Commission estimates about 30% do not have broadband internet. The result is limited access to information, including health-related information, as well as the ability to research options and digital communication through email, provider portal systems and telemedicine.
Learn more about efforts to increase access to mental health services in rural areas, such as the EPIC Act currently introduced in the U.S. House and Senate, by visiting ruralminds.org/rural-policy-legislation.
How You Can Inspire Legislative Action
Make your voice heard by your elected officials. Contact your U.S. senators and representatives through letters and phone calls to co-sponsor and pass the EPIC Act. You can find your elected representatives and their contact information by visiting Senate.gov and House.gov.
Once you’ve contacted your senator or representative, share details on the issue or specific legislation you’re requesting action on and provide details or a personal experience to support the need.
Talk with your family, friends and neighbors to encourage them to get involved and contact their elected officials, as well.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
Source: Rural Minds
