" I am concerned about the plight of the working poor… If doctors are not paid for seeing those patients, doctors will not go to rural Alabama because you can’t expect a doctor to go to rural Alabama and lose money. "
- Robert J. Bentley

The quote under discussion highlights a concern about healthcare accessibility for low-income individuals, specifically those residing in rural areas like Alabama. The speaker expresses worry that doctors might be less inclined to serve these communities if they are unable to receive payment for treating patients who cannot afford medical care.

On a deeper level, this statement underscores the broader economic challenges faced by providers of essential services such as healthcare. It suggests that financial incentives play a crucial role in determining where and how health professionals practice their trade. Without adequate compensation, medical practitioners may avoid underserved regions, leading to gaps in healthcare coverage for those who need it most. This issue touches on larger societal questions about public policy and the equitable distribution of resources.

Robert J. Bentley was an American politician who served as the 51st Governor of Alabama from January 2011 until May 2017. He held various leadership positions within the state government before becoming governor, including lieutenant governor for twelve years prior to his term as governor.