rural hospitals

Lawmakers passed a bill that outlines how Wyoming will spend its $205 million in federal Rural Health Transformation funds. But the feds still need to OK it. Other bills meant to address rural healthcare challenges have also made it to the governor's desk.

With Driggs clinic saved from closure, many still seek care in Idaho Falls or Jackson as options for vital treatments dwindle.

The bill dictates how federal money can be used in the state and creates a perpetual fund. The legislature has also moved a bill that would change hospitals' ability to declare bankruptcy and one that requires hospitals to have a list of standard service charges.

The updated location is 2,500 square feet larger than the previous spot down the block.

The state’s priorities include improving access to care, building up its health workforce, and using technology to improve chronic disease management and bring care closer to home.

River Peak Health will feature emergency and primary care, as well as trauma, orthopedics and 24/7 surgery capabilities.

The Wyoming Department of Health is going around the state asking for input on how to spend its share of the Rural Health Transformation Program.

The last county in Wyoming without a hospital now has one. Uncertainty remains about its funding future.

A new report shows that nearly half of metro areas in the U.S. – including some in the Mountain West – have only one or two health systems controlling all inpatient care. Experts say that’s driving up the prices that patients have to pay.

The Labor, Health and Social Services Committee’s top subject during this interim was how to increase the number of labor and delivery and maternity health care professionals in the state. This, after the state lost three labor and delivery units over the past six years.