Dr. Christine Eady MannVerified account

The topic tonight is #infrastruction: what we think about our district needs, how we would prioritize, and how we would fund it. It's a great first topic as it doesn't get discussed nearly enough! #twittercongress

I think of infrastructure broadly-not just roads and bridges, but water access, internet access, and healthcare infrastructure. Rural areas of my district need access to all of these things. #TX31 #Twittercongress

As a physician, healthcare access is critical in rural areas. In Texas, our maternal mortality rate is the worst in the entire world. While there are studies ongoing to address this, the critical piece is access to timely medical care. #twittercongress

Over the past several years, many rural areas have seen funding cut and closure of community clinics, resulting in a severe lack of availability to necessary medical care. This needs to change. #twittercongress

There are many options for improving access, like incentives to doctors &hospitals to practice in rural areas, but we also need to think globally. Until we enact Universal healthcare coverage, these areas will continue to suffer, as people forgo needed treatment. #twittercongress

I also think we need to focus on broadband access nationwide. I happen to live in an area where I have limited access-I have to use satellite. If I drop off for a few seconds, you'll know why! #twittercongress

Internet access is now critical for everyone-students, job-seekers, the elderly. We need to cut through all the red tape and make broadband access available nationwide. #twittercongress

In terms of funding, one thing that gets missed in the discussion is that infrastructure spending has been shown to be a great investment. The return on investment is $1.5-$3 for every dollar spent. #twittercongress