Study: Rural Hospital Closures Raise Costs

A University of Minnesota study found rural hospital closures raise costs for patients at nearby facilities, reports KARE 11. The study reports that commercial inpatient prices increased by 3.6% per stay, about $500 per admission, following a closure. Researchers say the trend reduces competition and adds financial strain on families. Advocates warn that affordability challenges will worsen as rural access continues to shrink.