Eventually, it is our hope that all interested rural communities will participate in this program. Thus far, fourteen counties are engaged in the process. By agreeing to participate in Networks for Rural Health, Community leaders must commit time and attention to the difficult task of building a successful network for rural health. The unique approach to this task, designed by a variety of state agencies and organizations, consists of four phases.
Local leaders organize and agree to work together toward achieving common goals.
2 Complete core business evaluation Community leaders and program staff develop a profile of the community to guide decision making. 4 Implement the vision With appropriate technical assistance from program staff and others, the components of the future health care system are implemented and their impact evaluated. The initial technical assistance is provided free of charge to the community. Once a plan is designed, however, it is anticipated that the community will choose to make investments to ensure the viability of its future network for rural health. Guidance in exploring rural health network grants to supplement community resources is provided.