Rural health and economic vitality

I had coffee this week with friends (and bosses): Board Chair Marilyn and Board Vice Chair Phyllis.

Marilyn has been an active entrepreneur and farmer for 35+ years. Phyllis is nurturing and managing world-class advances in rural health care at Upland Hills Health based in Dodgeville, WI.

Marilyn has just pointed me to a very interesting doc.

Demographic Trends in Rural and Small Town America. Building Knowledge for Rural America’s Families and Communities in the 21st Century

In summary, "Improving the opportunities, accessibility and viability of rural areas is critical for creating a sustainable future for the 50 million rural people and the communities and institutions that are a critical element of the social, political and economic fabric of the nation."

And what could create more opportunities and viability in rural communities than access to world-class health care? Phyllis' work guiding the Upland Hills Health system represents the future for growing rural communities.

With rural health care advancing, beautiful rural communities like Iowa County Wisconsin can thrive.

The following is from the Upland Hills Health Mission...

... to consistently meet or exceed the expectations of those we serve, of those who serve, and of those we hope to serve, in a cost-effective manner.

... to lead a partnership with the communities, reflecting additional emphasis on health education, rehabilitation, and the prevention of illness and injury.

... to participate in the provision of health services to the poor, minorities, disabled, and other underserved persons in our community.


Having this kind of leadership in health care creates the kinds of viability and opportunities in our rural communities that Marilyn's article on demographic trends calls for.

You want to live in a beautiful place? Look where opportunities are most available. Look where health care and community vitality are valued.

For instance, where I work. Iowa County, Wisconsin. Come Grow With Us.


Upland Hills Health

Demographic Trends in Rural and Small Town America. Building Knowledge for Rural America’s Families and Communities in the 21st Century.

Carsey Institute University of New Hampshire. Reports On Rural America. Volume 1, Number 1