About this episode

The episode discusses the challenges of accessing emergency care in rural America with Dr. Aaron Kuzel.

In this episode of ACEP Frontline, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Kuzel from the University of Louisville to discuss one of the most pressing challenges in healthcare today, protecting and expanding access to emergency care in rural America. From hospital closures and workforce shortages to increasing healthcare deserts across the country, rural communities continue to face growing barriers to timely emergency treatment. Dr. Kuzel shares his perspective on the critical role emergency physicians play in ensuring high-quality, lifesaving care regardless of a patient’s ZIP code. The conversation explores why physician-led emergency care matters, the unique challenges facing smaller and rural emergency departments, and how advocacy at the state and national level is essential to preserving access for vulnerable populations. We also dive into the role of organized emergency medicine through American College of Emergency Physicians and how advocacy efforts are shaping policies focused on patient safety, workforce development, reimbursement, and sustainable rural healthcare systems. Whether discussing boarding, transfer delays, or maintaining specialty access in underserved regions, this…

People in this episode

Guest: Dr. Aaron Kuzel

Topics covered

• rural healthcare
• emergency medicine
• access to care
• advocacy
• healthcare challenges

Keywords

• emergency care
• rural communities
• healthcare access
• physician-led care
• advocacy efforts

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: University of Louisville, American College of Emergency Physicians

Places: rural America

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