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Literature review suggests that rural hospitals are in the worst financial conditions due to several factors: They are smaller, located in remote areas, and they provide less specialized services due to their problems with employing well-qualified staff. We decided to check whether it is true in the case of Polish hospitals. Based on the literature review, we have assumed that rural hospitals have less favorable financial conditions. In order to verify this assumption, we use seven indicators of financial health as well as a synthetic measure of financial condition. We have found that, in fact, there is no difference in financial condition between rural and urban hospitals, or even that the financial health of rural hospitals is better if we employ the synthetic measure. Additionally, we have found that the form of activity can be a crucial driver of better financial performance. The concept of rural sustainability is supported by good financial conditions of rural hospitals, which helps to provide better access to medical services for inhabitants of rural areas.

Literature studies suggest, that hospitals in rural areas are usually smaller and more sensitive to changes in health policies. The aim of this research is to assess and compare the financial condition of rural and urban hospitals. Basing on literature studies, we have assumed, that rural hospitals are characterized by lower profitability, higher debt and lower overall financial condition. We have proved, that rural hospital, although smaller, have lower debt ratios and better financial condition (especially in terms of profitability and liquidity). We have applied statistical tool and authorial methodology ("The M Method"), which basis on synthetic indicators of financial condition.

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