Reps. Jenkins, Cleaver Introduce Legislation To Expand Access To Rural Anesthesiology Care

Press Release

Today, Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II. (D-MO) introduced the Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act of 2015, to expand access to rural anesthesiology care.

"Improving access to healthcare in rural communities has always been one of my top priorities," said Congresswoman Jenkins. "We must ensure folks living in these communities have a system that functions efficiently and cost-effectively, and encourages physicians to practice there. I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation today to increase access to anesthesiology professionals for our rural hospitals and start tackling the growing shortage of anesthesiologists in rural communities."

"Whether we live in urban, rural, or suburban neighborhoods, we all need access to health care," stated Congressman Cleaver, II. "Qualified rural hospitals in Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties, and in all rural areas, deserve the resources to attract and retain physician anesthesiologists for rural patients. Ensuring that our rural residents have increased access to health care is critical to maintaining a vibrant community. I am pleased to work with Congresswoman Jenkins to introduce this bipartisan bill to give qualified rural hospitals the resources to attract and retain physician anesthesiologists for rural patients."

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