Rural Residency Planning and Development Act of 2025
Summary
The Rural Residency Planning and Development Act of 2025 aims to improve healthcare access in rural areas by establishing grant programs for rural residency programs. These programs will focus on training physicians in primary care, high-need specialties, maternal health, and obstetrics. The Act also authorizes technical assistance grants to support the development and planning of these residency programs.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely increase the number of physicians practicing in rural areas, addressing healthcare shortages. It will also provide funding for the development and expansion of rural residency programs. This will improve access to medical care for rural populations.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to healthcare in rural communities.
- Creation of new residency programs and expansion of existing ones.
- Focus on primary care and high-need specialties relevant to rural populations.
- Support for maternal health and obstetrics in underserved areas.
- Technical assistance to ensure the success of rural residency programs.
Potential Disadvantages
- The program's success depends on the effective implementation by the Secretary and the quality of grant applications.
- The authorized funding of $12.7 million per year may be insufficient to address all rural healthcare needs.
- The definition of 'rural area' is left to the Secretary, potentially leading to inconsistent application of the program.
- There may be challenges in attracting physicians to practice in rural areas even after completing residency programs.
- The program's reliance on eligible entities, which may include for-profit organizations, could raise concerns about profit motives influencing healthcare delivery.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It promotes the health and well-being of citizens in rural areas. Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for executing these powers (Article I, Section 8).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).