This Is Rural Health

JD Garza is the Associate Director of the California Area Health Education Center (AHEC), hosted at UCSF Fresno, and a board member of the National AHEC Organization. His career centers on partnering with community organizations to serve medically underserved communities. In this episode, JD breaks down how AHEC recruits, trains, and retains health professionals for rural and underserved areas—at scale. We get into AHEC Scholars (a two-year, interdisciplinary track with community projects), clinical placements across community health centers, and why elevating CHWs, MAs, and CNAs is key. He also shares a standout youth diabetes coaching partnership, outcomes to date, and a practical burnout-prevention curriculum (“Healing from the Heart”) co-built with Hennepin Healthcare.What You’ll Learn From This Episode:Introduction to JD Garza and AHEC Overview of California AHEC California AHEC Centers and Partnerships AHEC Programs and Initiatives AHEC Scholars Program Burnout Prevention and Resiliency Program Future Plans and ConclusionResourcesCalifornia Area Health Education Center (UCSF Fresno) National AHEC Organization HRSA Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) Program Hennepin Healthcare — Institute for Professional Worklife (burnout resources)Stanford Youth Diabetes Coaching Program The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

Ingrid Villeda is a Program & Community Engagement Specialist at the Alzheimer’s Association (Northern CA & Northern NV). She’s spent 8+ years serving older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers—especially in Latino and rural communities—building partnerships and delivering bilingual education that actually reaches families.In this episode, Ingrid breaks down what Alzheimer’s is (and isn’t), who’s at higher risk, and how new anti-amyloid therapies are changing the timeline for early-stage patients. We dig into the realities of rural care—limited specialists, long travel, internet deserts—and the concrete fixes that work: training primary care, leveraging Project ECHO, phone-first education, and meeting families where they already are (consulates, food banks, schools). You’ll leave with playbook-level ideas to expand access, support caregivers, and drive earlier detection in hard-to-reach places. What You’ll Learn From This Episode: Overview of Alzheimer's Association Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia Risk Factors and Research Diagnosis and Treatment Options Challenges in Rural Communities Addressing Rural Healthcare Obstacles Behavioral Symptoms and Care Strategies Resources and ConclusionConnect with Ingrid Villeda: LinkedIn Resourceshttps://www.alz.org https://uspointer.net https://www.dementiacareaware.org  https://projectecho.unm.edu/initiatives/alzheimers-and-dementia-care-echo/ The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

Kristy Bird MaKieve is the founder and CEO of Healthy Rural California, a nonprofit transforming healthcare access in Northern California’s underserved communities. A social entrepreneur and medical society leader, Kristy is spearheading graduate medical education programs, residency training, and innovative partnerships to address the rural physician shortage head-on.In this episode, Kristy shares how Healthy Rural California launched psychiatry and family medicine residencies in Chico, why medical education is the key to reversing decades of healthcare inequity, and how her team is creating pathways for youth, medical students, and future physicians to stay and serve rural communities. She breaks down the economic ripple effects of residency programs, her vision for an interprofessional healthcare campus, and what it really takes to bring lasting health equity to the North State.If you care about solving physician shortages, strengthening rural health, or building community-driven solutions, this conversation is a blueprint for impact.What You’ll Learn From This Episode: Healthy Rural California's Mission Challenges in Rural Healthcare Graduate Medical Education Initiatives Video Presentation: Residency Programs Impact of Residency Programs Community Health and Education Programs Future Plans and Expansion Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Kristy Bird MaKieve: LinkedIn ResourcesCalifornia Medical Association, National Rural Health Association ,UC Davis School of MedicineNorth Valley Community Foundation The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

Nate Sundheimer—Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and Director of Digital & Tech Strategy at Wipfli—joins CSRHA to demystify AI for rural healthcare leaders. With deep roots in healthcare innovation and a mission to make tech practical, Nate delivers a sharp, no-fluff session on how AI can empower rural providers to do more with less.This episode dives into real-world, nonclinical AI applications that reduce burnout, streamline operations, and improve patient outcomes—without breaking the bank or disrupting workflows. Nate walks through actionable frameworks for evaluating vendors, calculating ROI, and navigating implementation. Plus, he shares insights from Wipfli’s national survey of rural execs, showing how AI is already at work behind the scenes—even if providers don’t realize it. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the noise or unsure how to vet “game-changing” tech, this is your roadmap.What You’ll Learn From This Episode:Nate Sundheimer's Background and CredentialsIntroduction to AI in Rural HealthcareUnderstanding AI and Its ApplicationsCurrent State and Challenges in Rural HealthcareAI Solutions and Implementation StrategiesNonclinical AI and Technology ApplicationsImplementation Challenges and Success MetricsKey Takeaways and Final ThoughtsConnect with Nate Sundheimer: LinkedIn ResourcesWipfli – Healthcare Advisory & Technology Services, Microsoft Nuance DAX (Dragon Ambient eXperience),Abridge – AI Medical DocumentationSuki – AI for Clinical Documentation (FQHC focused)OpenLoop – Virtual Staffing for HealthcareThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

Kirsten Storne-Piazza is a licensed therapist, healthcare executive, and director of psychiatric programs at Orchard Hospital in rural Northern California. A passionate advocate for mental wellness in healthcare, she’s leading the development of a new inpatient youth psychiatric facility and actively works with first responders and rural health organizations to combat burnout and compassion fatigue.In this powerful talk, Kirsten shares the deeply personal and professional journey that brought her to the frontlines of rural healthcare leadership—including her pivot after the 2018 Camp Fire. She breaks down how her hospital tackled staff burnout head-on, reducing turnover by more than half and raising patient satisfaction to 92%. You’ll learn the tools, surveys, and strategies her team used to reshape culture, rebuild trust, and reignite purpose across departments. It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to improve outcomes by investing in their people.What You’ll Learn From This Episode: Kirsten's Background and Passion for Healthcare Defining Compassion Fatigue and Burnout Personal Journey and the Impact of the Camp Fire Addressing Compassion Fatigue in Healthcare Case Study: Orchard Hospital's Approach Steps to Improve Work-Life Balance Leadership and Employee Engagement Initiatives Results and Takeaways The Importance of Taking Care of Healthcare WorkersConnect with Kristen Storne-Piazza: LinkedIn ResourcesProfessional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL)Studer Group Rounding and Recognition ModelCompassion Fatigue Self-TestThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

Holly Laird, Rural and Disability Equity Lead at the California Department of Public Health, is on a mission to reframe how state systems engage with rural communities. A lifelong advocate with deep roots in local and state public health, Holly led the first-ever Rural Health Equity Landscape Analysis at CDPH—a powerful blueprint for how the government can better serve communities historically sidelined in public health conversations.In this episode, Holly shares insights from the year-long analysis, revealing the systemic disconnects that rural Californians face—from data invisibility and outdated funding formulas to the politicization of words like “equity.” She breaks down the findings from both internal CDPH interviews and external community-based organizations, highlighting the urgent need for flexible funding, local partnerships, better broadband, and culturally competent communication. You’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what true rural equity could look like—and why listening to frontline communities is step one.What You’ll Learn From This Episode: CDPH's Strategic Plan and Priorities Community Inclusion and Partnership Section Rural Health Equity Landscape Analysis Internal CDPH Findings Challenges and Opportunities in Rural Health External Community-Based Organization Findings Barriers and Supports in Rural Health Planning and Next StepsConnect with Holly Laird: LinkedIn ResourcesCA-RISE (Rual Initiative for Statewide Equity)Rual Messaging Guide - CA-RISE Toolkits Frameworks Institute - Messaging for Rural Equity Every Woman Counts Program (Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening) California Equitable Recovery Initiative (CERI) Middle Mile Broadband Initiative (CA Department of Technology) The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

What if the key to solving our aging crisis lies not in city halls but in rural towns—and in elevating the voices of those who’ve been overlooked for too long?In this powerful episode, we welcome Karol Swartzlander, Executive Director of the California Commission on Aging, a 24-year veteran in long-term services, aging policy, and state advocacy. From driving legislative wins to revolutionizing workforce inclusion and housing for older adults, Carol has been at the helm of California’s most forward-thinking initiatives for aging populations.What You’ll Learn From This Episode: Overview of the California Commission on Aging Policy Priorities and State Initiatives Legislative Successes and Challenges Workforce Development and Inclusive Employment Innovative Solutions and Future Plans Emergency Preparedness and Community Engagement Conclusion and Q&AConnect with Karol Swartzlander: LinkedIn ResourcesCalifornia Commission on Aging Website, Sign Up for AgeWatch Newsletter,Housing and Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP)Rural Master Plan for Aging Toolkit The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

Brock Slabach on Reimagining Rural Health Care from the Ground Up | CSRHA 2025 ConferenceBrock Slabach, COO of the National Rural Health Association, brings over two decades of frontline experience to the stage at the 2025 CSRHA Conference. A third-generation Kansas farmer turned policy leader, Brock has become a national force in rural health innovation and advocacy.In this episode, Brock outlines what it will take to strengthen and sustain health care in rural communities. He shares fresh insights on Medicare Advantage, infrastructure renewal, rural emergency hospital conversions, and how to align public policy with the real needs of providers on the ground. You’ll walk away with a smarter understanding of what’s changing in Washington, what it means for California, and how local leaders can shape the future of rural care.What You’ll Learn From This Episode:Introduction of Keynote Speaker Brock SlabachBrock Slabach's Background and AchievementsOpening Remarks and Setting the StageNational and California Rural Health OverviewChallenges in Rural Health ServicesAdvocacy and Policy EffortsMedicare and Medicaid IssuesRural Hospital Closures and Financial StrugglesLegislative Updates and Future PlansExecutive Branch Changes and ImpactsFuture of Rural Health Connect with Brock Slabach:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brock-slabach-596a291X: https://x.com/BSLABACHResources:https://www.ruralhealth.usThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this compelling panel discussion, host Shelly Brantley, Board Member of the California State Rural Health Association, brings together the powerhouse team behind UC Berkeley’s groundbreaking Rural Health Innovation Program. You'll hear from program founder and nationally recognized rural health leader Lynn Barr, faculty director Kim MacPherson, and two dynamic scholars blazing new trails in rural public health: Michelle Saenz and Rexanne Greenstreet.You’ll also hear how students gain hands-on policy experience through trips to Washington, D.C., where they meet with congressional staff and advocate for fairer healthcare reimbursement for rural communities.This episode is a must-listen for public health professionals, rural leaders, policymakers, and anyone who believes health equity shouldn't be determined by a zip code.Tune in and hear how UC Berkeley’s Rural Health Innovation Program is not just educating the next generation of rural changemakers—it’s empowering them to lead the movement.What You’ll Learn From This Episode: Lynn Barr's Journey and Insights Kim McPherson's Background and Focus Anne's Experience in Public Health Michelle's Role in Behavioral Health Founding the Rural Health Innovation Program Challenges in Rural Health Designing a Unique MPH Program Student Perspectives and Community Impact Challenges in Public Health Michelle's Policy Fellowship Experience Empowerment Through Advocacy California State Rural Health Association Personal Growth and Opportunities Applying Knowledge in Public Health Financial Empowerment and Creativity Encouragement for Prospective StudentsConnect with Our Guests:Lynn Barr: LinkedInKim MacPherson: UC BerkeleyMichelle Saenz: LinkedInRexanne Greenstreet: LinkedIn ResourcesUC Berkeley School of Public Health – Online MPH (Rural Health Innovation Program), The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of 'This is Rural Health,' host Scott Hertzberg is joined by Dr. Steven Sust and Dr. Jonathan Updike, child and adolescent psychiatrists from Stanford University, to discuss mental health challenges faced by rural Indigenous youth. The conversation covers the role of integrated and telepsychiatry care models, the importance of early intervention and support systems post-suicide incidents, and the impact of intergenerational trauma on mental health. Doctors Sust and Updike emphasize a collaborative approach and share insights into Stanford's initiatives like the Alcove program and ECHO sessions aimed at empowering young people and integrating community support. They also provide resources and information on upcoming events and programs to help healthcare providers better serve indigenous communities.What You’ll Learn From This Episode:The importance of youth mental healthFocus on Indigenous youth and integrated careTelepsychiatry and rural health challengesSuicide prevention and postvention strategiesImpact of the pandemic on Indigenous youthUnderstanding Indigenous health systemsEngaging youth in mental health initiativesThe role of peer support in youth mental healthStanford Indigenous youth mental health ECHOConnect with Steven Sust:@sustevenmd: Instagram | Twitter@stanfordyouthmh: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter@allcoveyouth: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter@goodformedia: Instagram | TwitterResourcesTwo Feathers Native American Family Services, United Indian Health Services,Stanford Center for Youth Mental Health and WellbeingNative American Youth Mental Health and School Mental HealthThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy...

In this episode of 'This is Rural Health,' host Scott Hertzberg, past president of the California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA), introduces new board member Dr. Lily Lau. Dr. Lau shares her background, role as the chief clinical officer at Momentous Health, and her dedication to improving cognitive healthcare services through telehealth. They discuss the challenges and solutions in providing accessible care to rural and underserved communities, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Lau also highlights the unexpected tech-savviness of older patients and the critical role of community resources and education in enhancing healthcare outcomes.What you’ll learn in this episode:Getting to Know Dr. Lily LauHobbies and personal interestsProfessional journey and roleChallenges in rural healthImproving cognitive healthcare accessThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of "This is Rural Health," we continue our special series featuring excerpts from the 2023 California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA) annual conference.In this episode, Denise Pimintel, System Manager for the Clinical Team at Common Spirit Telehealth Network, and Dr. Parimal T. Bharucha, a pulmonology and critical care specialist, share their insights on the challenges and opportunities of implementing telehealth in rural healthcare settings. They discuss the rapid adoption of telehealth during the pandemic, the importance of understanding specific needs when planning telehealth programs, and the critical role of communication and stakeholder alignment in building sustainable, effective solutions.This episode offers practical advice and inspiration for healthcare professionals and administrators looking to enhance healthcare delivery in rural communities through the strategic use of telehealth.The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of "This is Rural Health," we spotlight Abhiram Reddy, one of the California State Rural Health Association's newest board members. The episode, hosted by Scott Hertzberg, past president of CSRHA, delves into Abhiram's background, his passion for rural health, and his journey from a university student at UC Santa Cruz to a dedicated board member. Abhiram shares personal anecdotes, including the significance of a cherished keychain, his approach to managing stress through naps and hot showers, and his active involvement in his community through teaching and tutoring. The discussion also touches on the importance of resilience in rural health, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on personal and community health, and the need for increased public awareness of rural health issues. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the dedication and enthusiasm of the next generation of rural health advocates.What you’ll learn in this episode:Abhiram's background and family roots in agriculture and rural healthThe significance of Abhiram's cherished keychain from IndiaManaging stress and unwinding through naps, hot showers, and family dinnersAbhiram's educational journey as a neuroscience student at UC Santa CruzInfluences and inspirations from family and professorsThe importance of resilience in rural health and personal strategies to cultivate itReflections on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on personal health and family timeLeveraging community resources to improve rural health outcomesMobilizing public awareness and advocacy for rural health issuesThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of "This is Rural Health," we continue our special series featuring excerpts from the 2023 California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA) annual conference.Dr. Borowsky highlights the All of Us study, which aims to collect comprehensive health data from participants across the U.S. and return actionable genetic and health information to them. Dr. Borowsky also discusses the exciting potential of personalized nutrition through the CAPN (California Partnership for Personalized Nutrition) project, examining how individual responses to food can guide tailored dietary advice. Tune in to learn about the latest advancements in rural health and how these initiatives are set to transform the future of healthcare.What you’ll learn in this episode:Introduction and gratitude to podcast supportersOverview of the 2023 CSRHA Annual ConferencePrecision Medicine Initiative and its goalsAll of Us study: objectives and participant engagementImportance of diversity in biomedical researchChallenges and strategies for outreach in rural health communitiesPrivacy and data security in health researchReturning actionable genetic results to participantsPersonalized nutrition and the CAPN projectUtilizing microbiome and genetic data for tailored dietary recommendationsFuture directions and potential benefits of personalized healthcareConnect with Us: On Facebook | @csrha.advocateOn Twitter | @CSRHA1 and @CSRHApodcastVisit our website | csrha.orgEmail Address | podcast@csrha.orgConnect with Dr. Borowsky on LinkedInAll of Us Research Program | allofus.nih.govThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of "This is Rural Health," host Scott Hertzberg from the California State Rural Health Association introduces and welcomes new board member Elena Francisco. Elena, who has a long career as a dental hygienist, shares her passion for music, expressing her desire to return to playing the piano and guitar in retirement. The conversation delves into Elena's journey and dedication to improving oral health awareness and services, particularly in rural areas. She discusses her motivation for joining the board, highlighting the importance of educating Californians about the critical role of oral health in overall health. The episode provides insights into Elena's professional background and her commitment to contributing to the mission of the California State Rural Health Association.What you’ll learn in this episode:Introduction of new board member Elena FranciscoElena's background as a dental hygienistElena's retirement and hobbies, including her interest in playing the piano and guitarElena's role as a registered dental hygienist in alternative practiceElena's motivation for joining the CSRHA boardThe importance of oral health awareness and its impact on general healthChallenges in providing dental care in rural areasNetworking and connecting with healthcare professionals through CSRHAOpportunities for involvement and attending CSRHA conferencesThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of "This is Rural Health," we continue our special series featuring excerpts from the 2023 California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA) annual conference.We were privileged to have Brock Slabach, the Chief Operating Officer of the National Rural Health Association, discuss federal updates, future programs, and the unique challenges rural communities face. Brock shared insights into the impact of structural urbanism on rural health policies, the vital role of community-based care, and the powerful influence of political and commercial determinants on public health. With compelling insights and a call to action for stronger advocacy, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about advancing rural healthcare and making a difference in underserved communities.What you’ll learn in this episode:Brock outlines the latest federal updates and research initiatives aimed at enhancing rural healthBrock emphasizes the unique challenges faced by rural areas, which cover 80% of the U.S. land but house only 17-20% of the populationImportance of rural communities in producing essential resources: food, fuel, and fiberHistorical Disadvantages: Brock discusses how public policy has historically disadvantaged rural healthcareStructural Urbanism: The challenge of designing policies based on urban settings, which often overlook the needs of rural communitiesAgency and Advocacy: Brock stresses the need for strong advocacy to secure resources and fight structural urbanismCommunity-Based Care: Moving away from institutional-based models to focus on community-centered healthcareBrock highlights traditional social determinants and introduces political and commercial drivers of healthPolitical Determinants: Impact of Medicaid expansion and other policy decisions on rural health equityCommercial Interests: Influence of industries like tobacco, food, and fossil fuels on public health and policyCall to Action: Encouragement for rural health professionals to engage in advocacy, policy-making, and community collaboration to improve rural health outcomesThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of 'This is Rural Health,' host Scott Hertzberg introduces Shelly Brantley, a seasoned public health professional and a new California State Rural Health Association board member. Shelly, who also serves as a project director at RISE, shares her valuable experiences and insights on the Rural Initiative Strengthening Equity (RISE), a California Health Collaborative program funded by the California Department of Public Health's Tobacco Prevention Program.In this episode, we explore the pressing issue of tobacco use in rural communities. Shelly Brantley illuminates the unique challenges these communities face, the crucial role of local policy changes, and the necessity of advocacy, education, and collaboration in rural health. She also shares her personal interests and the fulfilling aspects of her role in advancing public health.What you’ll learn in this episode:Meet Shelly Brantley, new board memberUnderstanding RISE and tobacco preventionPersonal Insights: hobbies and interestsChallenges and successes in rural healthThe future of tobacco controlImpact of the pandemic on tobacco useMotivation and community collaborationBiggest challenges in rural healthConnect with Us: On Facebook | @csrha.advocateOn Twitter | @CSRHA1 and @CSRHApodcastVisit our website | csrha.orgEmail Address | podcast@csrha.orgRural Initiatives Strengthening Equity | healthcollaborative.org/program/riseThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode, Michel Schneider, President of the California State Rural Health Association, alongside her board colleague Elena Francisco, speaks with Dr. Elisa Chávez, a Professor in the Department of Diagnostic Sciences at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. They discuss the significance of collaboration and partnership in improving access to oral healthcare for vulnerable groups in California, especially among older adults. Dr. Chavez shares insights on the impact of dental students' firsthand experiences in rural settings, emphasizing the need for basic oral health care awareness among these communities. The discussion touches on teledentistry and its role in expanding access to dental care, the importance of oral health in overall well-being, and strategies for community engagement and resource sharing to tackle unmet dental needs.What you’ll learn in this episode:Dr. Elisa Chavez's background and work at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of DentistryAddressing oral health in vulnerable populationsDental students' a-ha moments and rural health initiativesThe importance of basic oral health and access to careExploring teledentistry and its impactOlder Americans Month and oral health initiativesCollaboration and community engagement in oral healthConnect with Us: On Facebook | @csrha.advocateOn Twitter | @CSRHA1 and @CSRHApodcastVisit our website | csrha.orgEmail Address | podcast@csrha.orgUniversity of the Pacific Degoni School of Dentistry | https://dental.pacific.edu/dentalConnect with Dr. Chávez on LinkedIn!Older Americans Month | acl.gov/oam/2024/older-americans-month-2024The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of "This is Rural Health," we continue our special series featuring excerpts from the 2023 California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA) annual conference. This episode features a thought-provoking discussion by Dr. Michael Frackin on the importance of individualized palliative care for those with serious illnesses. His insights on the impact of palliative care on patient quality of life are truly inspiring and highlight its crucial role in healthcare. The episode encourages us to recognize the untapped potential of palliative care in improving patient outcomes and satisfaction, especially in rural communities. The podcast ends with acknowledgments and an introduction to the incoming CSRHA president, indicating a continued commitment to improving rural healthcare.What you’ll learn in this episode:Dr. Fratkin's deep dive into palliative careThe impact and value of palliative care for rural communitiesExploring palliative care for the most vulnerableTransitioning Leadership: A new chapter for CSRHAThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

In this episode of "This is Rural Health," we continue our special series featuring excerpts from the 2023 California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA) annual conference.The episode features Dr. Kristin Hoeft, Director of the California Oral Health Technical Assistance Center, who shares insights into oral health challenges for rural communities. She also shares California's strategic plans for improvement and the crucial role of primary care and emergency departments in addressing oral health issues. Dr. Hoeft discusses the importance of oral health, challenges in rural areas, and initiatives to improve access to dental care, including virtual dental homes, mobile vans, and collaboration with dental schools.What you’ll learn in this episode:Oral Health Challenges and Strategic Plans in CaliforniaAddressing Oral Health Literacy and PreventionEmergency Dental Care and Rural Health SolutionsConcluding Thoughts on Oral Health IntegrationThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.