This process is often a long term process, marked with difficulties in convincing a physician to make the move to the community, either set up or join a practice, and make the necessary efforts to establish a financially viable practice. It is a major decision for the community, the practitioner and the practitioner's family. Studies on the economic impact of a physician practice demonstrate a significant economic value for a rural community. Factoring in items such as professional expenses, office payroll, effects on hospital utilization for patient care, payroll related to hospital care, and other items reveal a surprising fact. These facts point out an indisputable reality for our rural communities.
Health care is more than providing care to ill or injured citizens.
It is, or can be, a significant economic generator for the local community. The answer is obvious. As the health care delivery system in our country changes in what seems like almost daily, the involvement of local folks in the maintenance and utilization of their local health care infrastructure can mean the difference between ensuring the vitality of their community or jeopardizing its existence. As rural Texans look for ways to keep their communities alive, assistance in recruiting and retaining health care practitioners, assessing health care delivery needs, and local citizen involvement, investment, and decision-making is available. As the Texas State Office of Rural Health, the Center for Rural Health Initiatives offers a variety of programs and services designed to assist rural Texas communities and health care providers in addressing their needs and concerns.