Rural hospitals in Pennsylvania are facing financial challenges as elective surgeries were put on hold during the initial coronavirus shutdown.
Stephanie Watkins of the Hospital and Health Association of Pennsylvania testified in front of the state senate earlier this week.
“Rural hospitals were ramping up to face a potential increase in COVID-19 cases, while at the same time their elective procedures and revenue sources stopped,” Watkins said. “It continues to be a challenge, and will be a challenge, because patients are just not sure yet about coming back into a hospital.”
Last year, the senate passed a bill that sought to promote access to rural hospitals and encourage innovation in healthcare delivery to rural counties.
