By State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper)
As someone who has lived in rural Indiana all of my life, I have seen firsthand the issues many of my family, friends and neighbors experience when trying to access health care.
During my time in the Senate, I have worked with my colleagues and supported legislation aimed at improving rural health care.
One new law, for example, requires medical students in Indiana to do a rotation working in a rural community. The hope is House Enrolled Act 1358 will entice more health care professionals to practice in our small towns.
This year, I also supported Senate Enrolled Act 293, which removes unnecessary red tape for pharmacists to obtain their licenses. This new law streamlines the process for obtaining a license, helping attract more pharmacy students and pharmacists to Indiana.
These new laws build on legislation from 2025 aimed at preventing large hospital networks from anti-competitive contracts with insurers that put rural hospitals at a financial disadvantage and ensuring Hoosiers in rural communities have adequate pharmacy coverage from their pharmacy benefit manager.
When emergencies happen, seconds can make the difference between life and death. That's why it's important for Hoosiers to have access to health care options close to home.
I will continue to work with my colleagues and local stakeholders to ensure rural Hoosiers have access to the health care they need.
As always, constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns by email at s48@iga.in.gov or by phone at 1-800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper) represents Senate District 48,
which includes Crawford, Dubois, Gibson, Perry, Pike and Spencer counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
