The Struggle for Care in Rural Tennessee: William Baker’s Story

Introduction: Why William’s Journey Matters

When we think of healthcare in America, we often imagine modern hospitals, high-tech equipment, and the promise of relief from pain or illness. But for people like William Baker, an aging, hard-working resident of rural Tennessee the reality is far less hopeful. From devastating floods that wiped out his home to the impossible trade-offs between paying bills and receiving lifesaving treatments, William’s story paints a striking portrait of what it means to grow old in a place where healthcare is hard to reach and sometimes even harder to afford.

We’re at a crossroads in this country where rural hospitals are closing, doctors are leaving small towns for big cities, and older Americans are left struggling to keep up with rising costs and inadequate transportation. William’s journey highlights just how urgent it is to make changes. If we don’t act now, tens of thousands of others will be left behind, forced to choose between their health and their financial stability. By reading his story and understanding the data behind it, we hope you’ll be inspired to join a growing call for rural healthcare reform that is compassionate, accessible, and equitable for all.

William Baker: A Portrait of Resilience

William Baker grew up in the rugged countryside of middle Tennessee, where life often demanded more than it gave. He spent his formative years working in a lumber yard, waking up with the sun to put food on the table. Smoking and drinking had been part of the culture, but he quit both in time to save himself from following in his father’s footsteps, a man who died of alcoholism in front of the family when William was a child. When asked how he endured these difficulties, William said it was “hard work and family” that kept him grounded.

Despite his steadfast resilience, William’s health challenges grew over the years, culminating in a painful diagnosis of renal vasculitis that requires dialysis three times a week. His struggles were magnified by a catastrophic flood that wiped out his property, eventually forcing him into an independent living facility.

“Working hard all my life has worn me down, but I just push through the aches and pains. It’s just how life goes… Now with kidney trouble, it’s even harder.” – William Baker

Every stage of his life has been marked by self-reliance, but no amount of grit could prepare him for the reality of needing regular medical treatments without having the means or resources to reach them comfortably.

A Daily Battle for Healthcare Access

One of William’s greatest losses came last year when he had to give up his driver’s license. Independence, especially in rural Tennessee, often hinges on the ability to drive yourself around. While living in an independent facility is meant to give seniors a modicum of freedom, the absence of reliable non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) has transformed a routine dialysis appointment into a full-blown ordeal.

“I do wish I could get reliable transportation to my appointments, but there aren’t many options for folks like me. Sometimes I feel down, like a burden on my family. We’re just trying to get by.” – William Baker

The emotional toll of these ongoing difficulties can be just as heavy as the physical one. William expresses a deep sense of sadness over feeling like a burden, reflecting a reality many rural seniors face. Time and again, they’re confronted with a patchwork system that doesn’t seem designed with their needs in mind.

Understanding the Bigger Picture: Rural Healthcare Challenges

Limited Medical Professionals & Hospital Closures

In many parts of rural America, the number of healthcare providers is shrinking. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (2019), only about 10% of physicians practice in rural areas, despite nearly 20% of Americans living there. Making matters worse, rural hospital closures have soared. Between 2010 and 2021, 136 rural hospitals closed across the country (UNC Sheps Center, 2022), leaving patients like William with nowhere close to turn.

Growth of the Older Adult Population

Coupled with these closures is the fact that a larger share of seniors now reside in rural regions. The Rural Health Information Hub (2022) reports that in many rural counties, individuals aged 65 or older make up about 20% of the population, a figure that’s on the rise.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Gaps

For William, the most immediate hurdle is getting him to dialysis three times a week. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer transportation benefits, but these vary widely, and Tennessee’s coverage often falls short. Many communities rely on volunteer-based programs with lengthy waitlists, mirroring William’s experience.

“I’ve been on that waiting list for months. I’m sure they’re trying their best, but there just aren’t many options for folks like me.” – William Baker

Broadband & Telehealth Barriers

Even if telehealth could help seniors avoid some in-person visits, a digital divide persists in rural areas. The Federal Communications Commission (2021) notes that over 22% of rural Americans lack reliable broadband, making telemedicine, health education, and online support groups less accessible.

William Baker’s Wish for the Future

William is not one to dwell on what he calls “tough luck.” He gets up each morning, braces for the aches in his back, and continues to walk to appointments whenever he can. The independent living facility has given him a roof, and his faith community provides a sense of connection. But the underlying question of how long can he continue like this weighs heavily on him.

“I’m 73 and I know more is coming. I really wish I could have more independence and get transportation so I’m not as dependent as I am today.” – William Baker

His words echo the sentiments of many older adults throughout rural America who fear that every new health setback could be the one that takes their independence away for good.

A Call to Action: How You Can Help

William’s story is powerful, but it doesn’t have to be the norm. By working together—community members, policymakers, nonprofits, and healthcare providers—we can help build a better support system for older adults in rural areas. Let’s look at some of the critical ways to make a difference.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Support Organizations: Get involved with the National Rural Health Association or explore resources at the Rural Health Information Hub to learn how you can advocate for better policies and support for rural healthcare providers.

Learn About Telemedicine: Telehealth can be a lifeline for rural areas. Visit Telehealth.HHS.gov to explore how telemedicine can help expand access to care.

Access NEMT Services: Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is crucial for individuals who need help getting to medical appointments. Learn more about NEMT options in your area through the Medical Transportation Access Coalition.

Contact Your Representatives: Speak out for better rural healthcare policies by contacting your local representatives. Find your elected officials here: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials and make your voice heard.

By taking even one of these steps, you can help ensure people like William Baker have a clearer path to the care they desperately need. In the process, you’ll help preserve the dignity and independence that every older adult in our country deserves.

References

Association of American Medical Colleges. (2019). 2019 State Physician Workforce Data Report. Federal Communications Commission. (2021). Broadband progress reports. Retrieved from https://www.fcc.gov/reports-research/reports/broadband-progress-reports Kaiser Family Foundation. (2021). Medicare Advantage Plans in 2021 – Infographic. Retrieved from https://www.kff.org/medicare/ Rural Health Information Hub. (2022). Rural demographics and aging. Retrieved from https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/aging UNC Sheps Center. (2022). Rural Hospital Closures: Tracking Closures Since 2010. Retrieved from https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/programs-projects/rural-health/rural-hospital-closures/