National Rural Health Day

Northwest Missouri rural communities face unique healthcare concerns including healthy life-style issues, accessibility issues (particularly in terms of transportation and technology), and affordability issues as the result of larger percentages of un-/underinsured citizens. These are just a few of the concerns Northwest Medical Center and other local, state and national rural stakeholders hope to bring to light during the second annual National Rural Health Day on Thursday, November 15, 2012.

National Rural Health Day gives Missouri the opportunity to ‘Celebrate the Power of Rural’ and showcase the good works of our rural citizens, as well as, raise awareness to the healthcare concerns our communities face.  Northwest Medical Center is committed to promoting healthy life-style choices and healthcare.  Our goal is to bring the amenities and services that urban areas enjoy, to citizens and patients residing in our local communities.   

Events recognizing National Rural Health Day and “Celebrating the Power of Rural” will take place in every state throughout the nation the week of November 11-17.  In Missouri, Northwest Medical Center will celebrate National Rural Health Day by partnering with area schools and business to WALK FOR WELLNESS.  On November 15^th, anytime throughout the day, we are asking community members to Stop what you are doing, Drop the pencils and close the computers, and Walk for 5 minutes, 10 minutes, an hour; whatever you have time for. 

Northwest Medical Center invited area schools to participate in the WALK FOR WELLNESS, and the response has been great.   Albany R-III District Superintendent Jon Rinehart agrees that healthy lifestyles are important and we need to continue to educate our children.  “Our school district is proud to partner with Northwest Medical Center to highlight such an important issue that effects our youth and community.” -Jon Rinehart, Albany School District Superintendent.

Unite with us to recognize National Rural Health Day by walking and supporting healthy life-style initiatives.  Be sure to send photos of your walk to trisha.kellogg@northwestmedicalcenter for Facebook postings and recognition.  Let’s Stop, Drop, and Walk, to Celebrate the Power of Rural!