[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 194 (Tuesday, November 18, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H4762]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       NATIONAL RURAL HEALTH DAY

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, Thursday marks National 
Rural Health Day.
  Nearly 60 million Americans live in rural areas, and they too often 
encounter limited access to primary care specialists and health 
services. These gaps are worsened by transportation barriers, doctor 
shortages, and hospital closures. These challenges don't just affect 
individuals; they affect entire families and communities.
  Before coming to Congress, I spent nearly 30 years in the nonprofit 
healthcare field, assisting those with life-changing diseases and 
disabilities.
  Most of my congressional district is rural, and many constituents 
must drive long distances to get the care that they need. Some do not 
have broadband access. Some have limited transportation options. 
Thankfully, telehealth has added tremendous reach and value to 
communities across the country.
  That is why I reintroduced the bipartisan Helping Ensure Access to 
Local TeleHealth Act, or the HEALTH Act, which cuts red tape and allows 
community health centers and rural health clinics to provide telehealth 
services to their patients. Telehealth makes life simpler for rural and 
underserved communities, especially for our seniors. Telehealth is an 
essential part of healthcare that expands access to care for all 
Americans, regardless of location.

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