As one of the largest and most comprehensive recruitment and retention resources, 3RNET (National Rural Recruitment and Retention Network) is a nonprofit network funded by the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy and member dues. 3RNET has one dedicated Network Coordinator in each of the 50 states and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The Indian Health Service, the Cherokee Nation, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs are also part of 3RNET. According to Executive Director Mike Shimmens, more than 2,000 medical professional placements are achieved annually through 3RNET’s recruitment tools, with 90% of these in designated shortage areas.
Some of the services 3RNET offers include:
- A website, 3RNET.org, where health professionals seeking jobs in rural or underserved areas can register for free to browse and search jobs, and healthcare employers can post jobs through their 3RNET Network Coordinator
- A blog about recruitment and retention in rural and underserved areas
- The 3RNET Recruiting for Retention Academy and the 3RNET Annual Conference
- Community Based Training – 3RNET offers training focused on practical strategies for recruiting for retention
- Education on recruitment and retention best practices
The main focus of 3RNET’s efforts is to connect people seeking healthcare-related jobs in rural or underserved communities with healthcare employers known as “safety net providers.” 3RNET also publishes the Employer’s Guide to Workforce Programs, providing an overview of J-1 Visa Waivers, loan repayment programs, and Health Professional Shortage Areas.
The 3RNET Network Coordinator for South Dakota is DeAnn Sprenger from the South Dakota Office of Rural Health, visit 3RNET Network Coordinator Contacts for contact information.
To learn about other recruitment and retention resources for rural health facilities, visit Rural Health Information Hub.
