Accessing Rural Telehealth Services in Kansas County
GrantID: 448
Grant Funding Amount Low: $25,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $100,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Kansas's Rural Transportation Barriers
In Kansas, rural residents face significant transportation barriers that hinder access to essential services, particularly healthcare. With over 80% of the state's land classified as rural, many residents are located far from healthcare facilities. A Kansas Health Institute report noted that approximately 25% of rural residents did not seek care due to transportation issues. This statistic highlights a critical gap in the accessibility of health services, particularly in areas where public transportation options are limited or nonexistent.
Who Faces These Barriers Locally?
The residents who are most affected by these challenges include low-income families, the elderly, and those with disabilities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, close to 17% of Kansas’s population lives below the poverty line, predominantly in rural areas where transportation options are minimal. Additionally, many seniors in rural Kansas lack private transportation and often face mobility issues, making it difficult to travel for necessary healthcare appointments, grocery shopping, or other essential errands. This lack of reliable transportation services underscores the urgent need for enhanced mobility solutions.
How Funding Addresses It
This grant funding is specifically designed to bolster rural transportation capacity, enhancing mobility for underserved populations in Kansas. Through the establishment of partnerships among local transportation providers, healthcare entities, and community organizations, the funding aims to create a coordinated approach to transportation services. Enhanced services may include shuttle programs, on-demand rideshare initiatives, and improved scheduling that accommodates healthcare appointments. By addressing the transportation barriers faced by rural residents, this initiative seeks to improve overall health outcomes and enable better access to essential services.
Additional Context for Kansas
With the unique geographic and economic landscape of Kansas, the success of these initiatives relies on a deep understanding of local needs and resources. The state is characterized by significant distances between towns and limited infrastructure, making conventional transport solutions often inadequate. By focusing on rural-specific solutions and leveraging local resources, this funding can lead to improved health access and community mobility, better aligning transportation services to the needs of Kansas residents. In summary, addressing these barriers through targeted funding can significantly impact community health and enhance the quality of life for Kansas's rural population.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
