But many rural clinic patients depend upon those government insurance plans to pay their medical bills. As a result, some rural residents with private health plans are going elsewhere for their medical services. Several Oregon agencies, such as the Rural Health Association and the Northeast Oregon Area Health Education organization, offer technical help. Recruitment and retention of health professionals, especially physician's assistants and nurse practitioners. Recognition that health care is part of community economic development.
Clinics bring money into a community and can be an asset in attracting new businesses.
Networking and cooperation among the 29 rural clinics in Eastern Oregon.