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Temporary_Target4156 t1_j2sz5py wrote

As someone who has lived and worked in both rural and urban MA, the rural parts of the state could use more investments. There is definitely a lack of medical services in my area, for example, and much of the infrastructure needs work (just like the entire state).

The problem is the population of rural MA, and the taxes they bring in. Urban MA is the economic power in the state, and contributes a higher share to the state coffers due to population and taxes. As a result, it gets a higher share of the budget than rural areas.

Further development in rural areas, however, could be of use to the whole state. Incentives for people to move to/live and work in rural areas could help restart and strengthen our local economies. Better health infrastructure would help alleviate or manage chronic health problems in underserved areas, as well as providing new jobs, helping the residents and providing more income for the areas. More investment in rural areas could mean better returns in the future for everyone.

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wgc123 t1_j2tnnqc wrote

Massachusetts is a leader on medical stuff in several different ways, so building on one of our strong points would be a great idea

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GreatAndPowerfulNixy t1_j2v5ldd wrote

WMA has one level I trauma center (Baystate Medical Center) whose service area covers one of the largest geographic regions in the northeast. Compared to the Boston metro area with seven level I trauma centers. It's kind of bananas.

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Temporary_Target4156 t1_j2v78sc wrote

Exactly. More medical services means more jobs, better health for the region, and more money to hopefully spend on infrastructure

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thewags05 t1_j2w96yp wrote

I work remotely and recently moved from the Burlington area out to Western Mass. I can confirm that trying to find a primary care physician out here is an exercise in futility. I've had a couple of places tell me to check back in 2024 in mid 2022

For now, it's easier just to drive back to my old one by Boston.

Weirdly specialty care can be a little easier, but you better not have an HMO that requires a referral.

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