From Colorado’s Public News Service
Federal health care reform provided by the Affordable Care Act is helping increase access to medical care for the nearly 15 percent of Coloradans who live in rural communities. Dr. Amy Barton, associate dean of clinical and community affairs at the University of Colorado School of Nursing, says the San Luis Valley is one model of excellence.

“If we could replicate that with some of these moneys in areas across the state, it would enhance health care in those regions.”

Part of an $11 billion fund will be used to strengthen 160 community health centers across Colorado, such as those in Limon and Aurora, which received grants last week. Another chunk of the federal funds will be used to train advanced nursing techniques for those working in rural areas. Barton oversees that training at CU.

“As we increase access to primary care, it’s important that we also increase the number of primary care providers that are available.”

One type of primary care worker being trained via the Affordable Care Act is the nurse practitioner – an advanced practice nurse who can handle routine checkups and certain emergency care, Barton explains.

“Oftentimes in rural areas, there’s not a physician. A nurse practitioner is available to see patients within that community.”

More than 720,000 Coloradans live in rural communities, and nearly 10 percent of them have no regular source of health care or health advice.

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