Governor Robert Bentley proclaimed this week as Alabama's "Rural Health Week" to raise awareness about the underserved populations in the state's remote areas, according to WHNT News.
Here are five facts:
1. Today, 24 rural Alabama counties have smaller populations than they had in 1910.
2. Thirty-three rural counties in the state are expected to have less population in 2040 than 2010.
3. The state has the third highest death rate in the nation, and the rate is 11 percent higher for residents in rural areas.
4. The federal government only recognizes two rural counties as providing the minimal primary care service needed.
5. The Alabama Rural Health Association is imploring people to express their support for policies that strengthen rural healthcare in the state.
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