Rural Healthcare summit | Geisinger

In recent years, rural healthcare has gained significant attention as communities grapple with challenges that threaten the well-being of their residents. The Susquehanna Valley Regional Rural Health Summit, hosted by Geisinger College of Health Sciences and the Pennsylvania Department of Health on October 24, 2023, serves as a focal point for addressing these urgent issues. More than 100 stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, elected officials, and community leaders, came together in Danville to discuss strategies to overcome the multifaceted challenges facing rural healthcare systems.

### Key Issues in Rural Healthcare

The summit addressed critical health concerns prevalent in rural communities, including elevated rates of obesity, smoking, and suicide. These issues directly impact life expectancy and overall community health. Discussions emphasized a holistic approach to health that considers various factors, such as workforce development, mobile care delivery, behavioral health, transportation access, nutrition, health literacy, civic engagement, and community infrastructure. George Garrow, CEO of the Primary Health Network, poignantly noted, “You can’t expect wellness where the conditions for wellness do not exist.” This statement underscores the necessity for developing environments that support health initiatives.

#### Workforce Challenges

One predominant theme during the summit was the shortage of healthcare professionals in rural areas. While Geisinger’s medical center acts as a healthcare anchor in Danville, surrounding regions face significant gaps in primary care, psychiatry, and maternity services. To combat this issue, Geisinger College has launched the Abigail Geisinger Scholars program. This initiative aims to cultivate local talent and encourage youth from these communities to pursue careers in healthcare.

During discussions, participants explored various strategies to build a sustainable workforce pipeline. Emphasis was placed on creating rapid-entry pathways and career ladders for local youth, ensuring that rural areas have access to a skilled workforce. This strategy is crucial as the population ages and the demand for healthcare services rises.

### Behavioral Health Focus

Behavioral health emerged as another key area of concern during the summit. The stigma surrounding mental health issues can prevent individuals from seeking help, particularly in rural settings where resources are already limited. Mental health services are essential for reducing the rates of depression, suicide, and substance use disorders, which are often more pronounced in rural areas compared to urban counterparts.

The summit highlighted the need for integrating behavioral health services into primary care settings to make them more accessible. Strategies discussed ranged from telehealth services to community-based interventions that could reach individuals in need more effectively.

### Healthy Aging and Maternal Care

With an increasingly aging population in rural areas, healthy aging was a critical topic at the summit. Strategies aimed at improving senior health were explored, focusing on preventive care and managing chronic conditions. Equally important was maternal care, as rural communities often struggle with limited access to maternity services.

Participants discussed the necessity of creating family-centered care models that prioritize both maternal and child health, making sure that women have access to healthcare throughout their pregnancy and beyond. Through initiatives like the Abigail Geisinger Scholars program, the summit participants hope to meet these challenges head-on by fostering a new generation of healthcare providers committed to serving their communities.

### Leveraging Data for Local Solutions

Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Debra Bogen emphasized the importance of using data-driven solutions to address healthcare disparities, even within neighboring counties. By examining local health metrics, communities can identify specific needs and develop tailored interventions. Such localized strategies are vital, as rural healthcare solutions cannot be one-size-fits-all.

The discussions at the summit contributed to shaping the Pennsylvania Rural Health Association’s newly published 2025–2030 Rural Health Plan. This plan aims to guide future efforts by emphasizing the role of actionable data and community involvement.

### The Role of Community and Civic Engagement

Community engagement plays an integral role in addressing rural health challenges. Civic engagement not only helps identify the gaps within local healthcare but also fosters a sense of ownership among residents. When communities actively participate in the development of health programs, they are more likely to support and sustain them.

Several key points emerged regarding civic engagement. Health literacy programs were mentioned as a way to empower community members to make informed health choices. Enhancing health literacy can improve health outcomes, thereby contributing to an overall increase in community wellness.

### Infrastructure and Transportation

Access to transportation is a significant barrier for many individuals in rural settings, limiting their ability to attend appointments or seek care. There was significant dialogue regarding the need for improved transportation options, including innovative solutions like community ride-sharing programs or partnerships with local organizations to bridge these gaps.

Additionally, the summit touched upon the importance of healthcare infrastructure. Ensuring that healthcare facilities are equipped and located where they are most needed can substantially improve access to care.

### Conclusion

The Susquehanna Valley Regional Rural Health Summit highlighted numerous challenges and opportunities within rural healthcare. With a commitment to collaboration among healthcare professionals, community leaders, and educators, actionable strategies can be devised to combat prevalent health issues.

In a climate where healthcare disparities are pronounced, initiatives such as the Abigail Geisinger Scholars program exemplify a proactive approach to developing a skilled healthcare workforce dedicated to rural communities. By fostering holistic strategies that encompass workforce development, behavioral health, and community engagement, summit participants are working to lay the groundwork for healthier rural communities.

As these discussions extend beyond the summit, it becomes clear that a concerted effort involving data-driven solutions and local stakeholder involvement is paramount. The path forward will require sustained attention, innovation, and compassion to ensure that rural populations no longer feel the weight of healthcare inequities.

Ultimately, the Susquehanna Valley Regional Rural Health Summit serves not only as a gathering of concerned professionals and leaders but also as a beacon of hope for the future of rural healthcare. Together, through informed discussions and community involvement, it is possible to create a healthier tomorrow for Pennsylvania’s rural communities.

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