Rural Healthy People 2010

Rural Healthy People 2010 is a new initiative whose objectives include surveying local and state health leaders in rural areas. The intent of the survey is to identify "rural health priorities, synthesize available research and publications on these priorities, identify and describe models for practice and disseminate information to rural communities" (Gamm & Hutchinson, 2004). The rural healthy people project is focusing on developing practice models that rural health care communities can use to address problems and rural health priorities.

The project notes that many health challenges and public concerns exist within rural areas of the nations populations where more than 20% of the population resides (School Rural Nursing, 2005). Further the project notes that many of the cultural, economic and social challenges facing the nation exist exclusively in rural settings. The project aims to recognize the unique needs of rural America and provide "illustrative solutions" for the conditions affecting each region of rural America (School Rural Nursing, 2005).

Program models will include educational interventions directed toward health care workers practicing in rural areas and training that will help rural providers provide optimal care. Certain programs will also target rural citizens. Training will emphasize enabling health care workers to understand the needs and interests particular to citizens living in rural areas, which are often different from those exhibited by urban dwellers (School Rural Nursing, 2005). Educational programs will also be targeted toward citizens providing them with information necessary to promote better health screening and participation in health events that will improve health outcomes in the areas where certain conditions warrant additional attention.