Today, in an effort to acknowledge the vital services of rural healthcare practitioners across Colorado, State Representative Tom Massey (R-CO), will introduce a House Joint Resolution to recognize "Rural Health Day."
A broad network provides healthcare services to more than 666,000 Coloradans living in rural areas, including nine rural hospitals, 29 critical access hospitals, 52 rural health clinics, public health departments, community-funded safety net clinics, rural-located community health centers, school-based health centers, emergency medical services, and private practitioners.
"Healthcare plays a significant role in local economies, providing one in six jobs in rural Colorado," says Cari Fouts, Colorado Rural Health Center's Director of Communication and Development. "Rural providers often lack the human and technical resources available to urban areas, and despite this, create innovative solutions to deliver patient-centered, high-quality care in an efficient and effective manner. A state-recognized 'Rural Health Day' is a great way to express appreciation and gratitude to the Colorado healthcare providers who dedicate their time and energy to rural communities."