A new study reveals that over 50 million Americans live in counties without access to radiation oncology clinics, with rural areas particularly affected. The research, published in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology, highlights a significant decline in such practice sites between 2018 and 2025, especially in rural and community settings. Nearly 69% of U.S. counties lacked a radiation oncology practice as of last year, and 427 counties experienced net losses in these services. The study, led by Dr. Kunal K. Sindhu, indicates that individuals in counties without access tend to have lower incomes and fewer healthcare resources. Concerns are mounting about the impact of recent billing code changes on access to care, prompting calls for the passage of the Radiation Oncology Case Rate (ROCR) Act, which aims to improve care quality and protect local cancer treatment facilities.
Fri, 10 Jul 2026 06:29:55 GMT | Radiology Business