On May 30, 2025, Georgia state lawmakers convened the inaugural meeting of a study committee dedicated to addressing the significant disparities in cancer care between the state's rural and metropolitan areas. Recognizing cancer as Georgia's second leading cause of death, the committee aims to enhance early access to lifesaving treatments for rural residents who face challenges such as long travel distances, limited insurance coverage, and inadequate screening options.

The committee is exploring several potential solutions, including the implementation of mobile screening units, expansion of broadband infrastructure to support telehealth services, recruitment of more healthcare professionals to underserved areas, and improvement of health insurance access. Throughout 2025, the committee plans to hold meetings across the state, culminating in the presentation of legislative recommendations to the Georgia General Assembly in January 2026.

Georgia's overall cancer incidence rate surpasses the national average, with certain regions, particularly in northeast Georgia, reporting thyroid cancer rates more than double the national average. Rural residents often encounter significant obstacles, including long travel distances to healthcare facilities, limited insurance coverage, and inadequate availability of screenings. In 2022, the uninsured rate in rural Georgia was 15.9%, compared to 13.2% in metropolitan areas.

Accessing cancer care often requires multiple appointments, but rural areas face a shortage of cancer clinics and specialists. Only 5.6% of U.S. oncologists practice in rural areas, where 15% of Americans live. Higher cancer mortality rates in rural areas can lead to increased healthcare costs and economic burdens on families and communities. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable healthcare access for all Georgians.

"Transportation is a huge issue," said Harsha Vyas, a hematologist and medical oncologist at the Cancer Center of Middle Georgia.

The establishment of this study committee underscores Georgia's commitment to addressing the critical issue of healthcare disparities between rural and metropolitan areas. By exploring and implementing targeted solutions, the state aims to ensure that all residents, regardless of their geographic location, have equitable access to essential cancer care services.