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Michigan celebrates National Rural Health Day, recognizes achievements in rural communities

For Immediate Release: November 19, 2015 

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services today is joining the Michigan Center for Rural Health (MCRH) and state offices of rural health across the country to recognize the Fifth Annual National Rural Health Day. National Rural Health Day is an opportunity to increase awareness for rural healthcare and to highlight the efforts and achievements in rural communities.

“Clinicians in rural areas work tirelessly to provide quality and compassionate care to their patients,” said Nick Lyon, director of the MDHHS. “Today, and every day, we thank them for their dedication to healthcare and the wellbeing of the communities they serve.”

Michigan is a diverse state that includes 57 rural counties. These communities are home to more than 60 hospitals, hundreds of certified rural health clinics and emergency medical services agencies that provide healthcare to rural residents.

“Rural communities in Michigan are wonderful places to live, work and raise families,” said John Barnas, executive director of MCRH. “National Rural Health Day celebrates what is great about healthcare in rural Michigan; close-knit communities where people know their providers on a personal basis and form long-lasting and trusting partnerships.”

The Michigan Center for Rural Health, supported by a state/federal cooperative agreement, serves as the Michigan State Office of Rural Health. MCRH coordinates resources and activities statewide on the development of a comprehensive approach to rural health care, including delivery of services; collecting and disseminating information concerning rural health issues; providing technical assistance and support for the development of services in rural Michigan; promoting recruitment and retention of health professionals; acting as an advocate between state and federal agencies and rural communities; and strengthening state, local, and federal partnerships.

Additional information about National Rural Health Day can be found by visiting www.celebratepowerofrural.org. For more information about rural health in Michigan, visit the Michigan Center for Rural Health at www.mcrh.msu.edu.

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