Us Congress House Bill HB3102

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/30/25
• Refer: 4/30/25

Caption

To direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish an Office of Rural Health, and for other purposes.

Impact

This legislation is crucial for addressing the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural communities. The bill seeks to identify disparities in healthcare availability and improve the understanding of rural health issues. It emphasizes the need for tailored policies and successful programs to enhance care, especially through telehealth initiatives, which can bridge the accessibility gap in remote areas. Furthermore, the office is tasked with coordinating activities related to improving health outcomes and promoting healthy lifestyles among rural populations.

Summary

House Bill 3102 aims to establish an Office of Rural Health within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to create this office, which would serve as a primary point of contact for rural health issues. The office's responsibilities would include conducting and promoting research on public health matters affecting rural populations and disseminating results to enhance healthcare services in those areas.

Contention

While the bill appears to have wide support as it addresses significant public health needs, there may be concerns regarding funding, the scope of the office's authority, and how it will coordinate with existing entities like the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy. The effectiveness of the Office of Rural Health in implementing these directives and the allocation of resources could be points of debate among lawmakers, especially considering the current public health funding environment.