The South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations (SDAHO) is proud to join communities across America in celebration of National Rural Health Day (NRHD) on November 21, 2024. The National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) and rural-focused organizations throughout the United States set aside the third Thursday of November to recognize NRHD. This annual event is an opportunity to celebrate the “Power of Rural” and honor the individuals and organizations dedicated to addressing the unique healthcare needs of nearly 61 million people living in rural America.
“It is of vital importance that we ensure all rural South Dakota communities have the opportunity to be healthy and have access to affordable, quality health care regardless of where they call home,” said Tammy Hatting, COO, SDAHO. “SDAHO is proud to recognize the incredible work of health professionals and volunteers in our communities across South Dakota on National Rural Health Day and throughout the year.”
Celebrating National Rural Health Day 2024: Advancing Maternal Health in Rural Communities
This year’s theme, “Advancing Maternal Health in Rural Communities,” brings into focus the urgent efforts to improve maternal healthcare for rural mothers and families. Through workforce development, enhanced hospital resources, telehealth advancements, and innovative care coordination, we’re witnessing a collective commitment to making maternal health services accessible, effective, and compassionate.
Explore HRSA’s 2024 National Rural Health Day Agenda
This year, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) invites everyone to participate in a vibrant series of events scheduled for National Rural Health Day. The agenda will showcase the ongoing work of federal agencies, rural healthcare providers, and local organizations working to overcome barriers to maternal health. HRSA’s events emphasize collaboration across sectors, addressing key aspects of maternal healthcare through the following initiatives:
- Workforce Training and Support
Strengthening the rural healthcare workforce is essential to delivering quality maternal care. HRSA and partner agencies are offering specialized training for healthcare providers, equipping them with the expertise needed to address the complex needs of rural maternal health. These efforts are creating a foundation of knowledgeable, skilled professionals ready to make a difference in the lives of rural mothers and their families. - Hospital Technical Assistance
Rural hospitals often face unique resource challenges. This year’s agenda highlights federal support and technical assistance programs that help hospitals enhance their maternal health services. By providing grants and resources to upgrade facilities, rural hospitals are empowered to deliver safer, higher-quality maternal care. - Telehealth and Technology
Telehealth has become an invaluable resource for connecting rural patients with specialized maternal care, enabling them to receive guidance and support without the burden of travel. By expanding telehealth networks, rural healthcare providers can ensure that expectant mothers have access to essential care, bridging the gap created by distance. - Flexible and Innovative Care Coordination
Community-based initiatives are making maternal health services more accessible by integrating local resources and patient-centered care into rural healthcare models. With federal, state, and community collaboration, rural health programs are offering a continuum of care, including prenatal and postpartum support, to ensure mothers receive consistent, quality healthcare.
Join the Conversation
HRSA’s National Rural Health Day events will feature discussions with rural researchers, community leaders, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes. From panel discussions to interactive workshops, these events provide a platform for sharing best practices, exploring new solutions, and fostering partnerships that strengthen rural healthcare.
Visit HRSA’s National Rural Health Day Agenda webpage to view the full schedule of events and take the opportunity to be part of this vital dialogue. National Rural Health Day is a celebration of progress, but it’s also a reminder of the work still needed to ensure every rural mother has access to the healthcare she deserves.
This November 21, join us in recognizing the tireless efforts to advance maternal health in rural communities. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of rural mothers, their families, and their communities.
Link to webpage: https://www.hrsa.gov/rural-health/about-us/rural-health-day?utm_campaign=enews20241107&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Additional information about National Rural Health Day, including resources and tools, can be found at PowerofRural.org.
