Oklahoma Rural Hospital Closures by the Numbers

Our latest research brief examines hospital closure in Oklahoma. Our analysis suggests that rural Oklahomans, as compared to residents in other states, are forced to travel longer distances to access care when their local hospital closes. The lack of timely access can further exacerbate the health outcomes of communities impacted by hospital closure. Click the image to read the brief.

Keeping ahead of the HIV epidemic during an era of COVID-19

Our latest information brief examines how COVID-19 has impacted and highlighted the HIV epidemic in rural Oklahoma. Despite the research and infrastructure needs to address HIV in Oklahoma, telemedicine and at-home testing have seen a significant uptake in utilization as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic – further improving the opportunities for HIV prevention.

Rapid Analysis: Examining the Impact of COVID-19 on Rural Communities and The Need for Per Capita Measures

Our latest research brief examines the importance of using per capita measures when assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural communities. We present evidence that shows rural communities in Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma are at a higher risk of COVID-19 related deaths due to a combination of greater rates of comorbidities associated with deaths and considerably fewer hospital beds per capita than urban areas.