Rural Health Matters: How Winter Weather Threatens Drug Safety in Rural Communities

University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us with important insights on drug safety and rural health during the winter months.

LINCOLN, Neb. (RFD NEWS) — As winter conditions continue across much of the country, drug safety is taking on added importance for rural families, especially as weather, travel challenges, and seasonal illnesses complicate daily routines.

Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined us on Friday’s edition of Rural Health Matters to discuss what drug safety means and why it is especially critical during the winter months.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Dr. Gold explained the importance of using medications properly, safely storing prescriptions, and being mindful of interactions—particularly when cold, flu, and other seasonal health concerns are more common.

He also highlighted how winter weather can make drug safety more challenging, from delayed access to pharmacies and healthcare providers to the risks of improper storage at extreme temperatures.

Dr. Gold also shared important reminders for viewers on staying informed and proactive about their health during the winter season.

Related Stories
Practical changes to retailer stocking standards promote more options all while reducing fraud and abuse in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Dr. Jeffrey Gold joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss the early warning signs of arthritis, the challenges facing rural populations, and steps individuals can take to manage joint health.
The goal is to start conversations and connect farmers with help when they need it.
The new county maps show farm program payments are widespread, but payment design still produces very different outcomes across regions and crops. AgriSompo’s Brooks York joins us to discuss the role of crop insurance in supporting mental health.
Just like cows, kids experience ups and downs—from small frustrations to unexpected moments—but there is still good in every day.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss rural mental health awareness, the importance of reducing stigma in agriculture, and resources available to farmers, ranchers, and rural families seeking support.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains why the 2026 USMCA review could directly affect dairy access, produce competition, and export reliability for U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Farms and major food companies use AI to improve efficiency and forecast demand. Still, developers said that training AI for different uses is only possible with support from knowledgeable workers.
The report shows that, despite production challenges, dairy farmers are producing more milk with fewer resources per gallon across the industry.
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.
More than 1,100 residents and farmers have signed a letter urging Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins to step in, saying the proposal threatens irrigation supplies and long-term farm viability in the region.
Reviewing risk management now can help dairy and livestock producers enter 2026 with clearer margins and fewer surprises.