Frontier health does present unique issues. Bernie Osberg, director, South Dakota Office of Rural Health, observes that frontier areas differ, to a certain extent, from other rural areas. Citing economic composition and dependency, population density and distance, availability of services and access - Osberg finds that frontier towns struggle to a greater degree. They are very vulnerable. A conference such as this, allows people with a common interest and purpose the opportunity to share perspectives and increase their understanding.
Benefits can be immediate, too.