Rural Healthcare Facilities at Risk
MedCity News, August 8, 2025 — Nearly 700 rural healthcare facilities across the United States face the threat of permanent closure. The shutdown of these hospitals triggers a chain reaction: disrupting patient continuity, causing delays in treatment, and amplifying cybersecurity vulnerabilities as new systems are implemented.
Angela's Experience with Hospital Closures
Angela, who has managed COPD for years, relied on her local community hospital during exacerbations. Its familiar staff and electronic health records ensured seamless access to her medical information. However, in early 2023, financial challenges and staffing shortages led to the hospital's closure. The next nearest facility was 45 minutes away, and during her subsequent health crises, she faced treatment delays, redundant testing, and missing medical records, complicating her care.
Broader Impacts on Rural Healthcare
In the months that followed, Angela's healthcare experience became increasingly fragmented. The regional hospital that took over her care struggled to maintain continuity, highlighting the broader issues faced by rural communitie...