Writer explains how Affordable Care Act will affect rural Americans

When the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act takes full effect next year, it will have a major impact on rural Americans. Steph Larsen, assistant director of organizing for the Nebraska-based Center for Rural Affairs, said she has received a large number of emails from people who say they are confused about the act. In response, she answers a few questions in the Daily Yonder in an attempt to make the act easier to understand (Map by FamiliesUSA)

"Rural Americans have been hit hard by a campaign of fear and misinformation by the detractors of the Affordable Care Act," writes Larsen. "Because of the rampant misinformation, a lot of rural people are understandably confused. If rural folks can get beyond this misinformation and educate themselves with accurate information, it will result in more rural people having comprehensive, affordable health insurance and greater access to health care. This will result in stronger rural health care infrastructure and healthier rural Americans. And that’s good for all of us." (Read more)