Michigan Center for Rural Health annual conference set for next week in Mt. Pleasant

What's happening: The Michigan Center for Rural Health holds its 27th annual conference April 25-26 at Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mount Pleasant. The conference, with the theme, "The Ripple Effect: Ideas into Action," is aimed at those working in rural health, including rural health clinics and hospital settings. The conference is also open to stakeholders from local public health, community mental health, substance use disorder treatment centers, and organizations working to positively impact social drivers of health.

The conference presents an opportunity for rural health stakeholders to share and learn from each other. It also provides networking and collaboration opportunities and provides a forum to share current and relevant information with rural health stakeholders. 

What's on the agenda: John Barnas, executive director of the Michigan Center for Rural Health, will give the opening remarks. The agenda is designed to amplify ideas and innovations in Michigan's rural health landscape. Planned topics include: Veterans Care in the Community; Telemedicine, Technology, and Workforce; Farm to Exam Table: Promoting Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Access to Quality Healthcare; and Beyond the Four Walls: Rural Partnerships to Expand Community Reach using Community Health Workers.

Health professional award: The 2024 Rural Health Professional of the Year will be announced at the conference. The award is presented to an individual deserving of recognition for their efforts in rural health in Michigan. The award honors Loren O. Gettel. Last year's winner was Mariah Hesse, CNO of Sparrow Clinton Hospital.

The Michigan Center for Rural Health has hosted the Michigan Rural Health Conference since 1997. The nonprofit organization coordinates, plans, and advocates for improved health for Michigan's rural residents and communities.
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