October 28th is recognized as National Drug Take Back Day. National Drug Take Back Day is a public health initiative provides an opportunity for individuals to dispose of their unused or expired prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs safely. This annual event, organized by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and local law enforcement agencies, aims to combat the growing issue of prescription drug abuse and its associated health risks. By participating in National Drug Take Back Day, people can ensure that these medications do not end up in the wrong hands, in turn reducing t ..read more

Diabetes presents a growing health challenge in rural areas, shedding light on the importance of increased awareness and targeted interventions. In many rural communities, limited access to healthcare facilities, lower socioeconomic status, and a lack of public awareness compound the difficulties of managing diabetes. Routine health check-ups are often scarce, making early detection and monitoring of diabetes less likely. Risk factors such as poor dietary choices and limited opportunities for physical activity in rural areas can contribute to the higher incidence of diabetes. It is crucial to ..read more

RHA Staff Deliver Prescription-drug Take-back boxes  In August, Big South Fork Medical Center, announced the opening of Myrtle Recovery Centers, its alcohol and drug treatment facility at the Oneida hospital. October 31st, Jessica Rackley, RHA's Rural Community Opioid Response Program (TN-RCORP) Director, and Jacy Warrell, RHA's CEO traveled to Oneida to deliver two prescription drug take-back boxes to be placed at the hospital. Rural organizations with an approved Drug Enforcement Agencey (DEA) license such as law enforcement agency, FQHC, pharmacy, or community menta ..read more

The 2023 Membership Voting is open  Members may login to RHA's Website for details, including: 2024 Board Officers 2024 Board Members (Each candidate's application is available to view on the Member Landing page) Bylaw Changes (summary of proposed changes is on the Member Landing page) 2024 Proposed Advocacy Priorities  Voting will remain open through November 16th (Rural Health Day) and results will be shared at our Annual Member Meeting on Friday November 17th (end of Annual Conference). The voting link will also be available in RHA's Conference App ..read more

If you missed the October 20th webinar with Mark Webb, Principal, you can access the presentation through our Resource Center under RHC Network on our website here.  Mark Webb, Principal, with the Facilities and Construction team at Vizient works to educate members about the solutions and value opportunities available to members in the capital and construction areas. As a former member in the C-Suite, he has extensive experience in hospital administration and operations, along with 25+ years in civic, aviation and hospital construction. This session aims to provide the rural health leader ..read more

This October we would like to send a thank you to all our members fighting for a healthier Tennesse for our youth. Child Health Month in Tennessee is a significant annual observance dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for the well-being of children in the state. Throughout the month of October, we ask everyone to join is in promoting a healthier lifestyle and preventive healthcare measures, such as vaccinations, regular check-ups, proper nutrition, and sharing mental health resources to ensure that children in Tennessee are able to have a long healthy life. During Child Health M ..read more

The Behavioral Health Safety Net System in Tennessee, known as BHSN of TN, is a crucial resource for adults aged 18 and older who lack insurance coverage but meet the necessary eligibility criteria. This program offers essential community-based behavioral health services, with the exception of inpatient care, which is not covered. BHSN of TN is effectively administered through contracts with Community Mental Health Agencies statewide. For individuals seeking to access this safety net assistance, the process involves locating a provider in their area and scheduling an intake appointment. During ..read more

Accessing disability services, especially in rural areas, has been a persistent challenge for many individuals and families. Tennessee Disability Pathfinder, or "Pathfinder," serves as a comprehensive resource hub to simplify this task. With a directory containing over 3,000 agency resources organized by county, including rural and marginalized communities, Pathfinder connects people with disabilities, their families, educators, and professionals to essential disability resources and services throughout the state. Pathfinder's user-friendly website, Home - Tennessee Disability Pathfinder (tnpa ..read more

The conversation with Jacy Warrell, the CEO of the Rural Health Association of Tennessee, provides valuable insights into the challenges and initiatives related to rural healthcare in Tennessee. It's clear that addressing the gaps in rural health is a top priority for her organization. Warrell emphasizes the importance of including rural communities in healthcare discussions and planning for the future of Tennessee. Rural areas make up a significant portion of the state and are home to a substantial underserved population. Inclusivity in these discussions ensures that the unique heal ..read more

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about empowering individuals, reducing the impact of breast cancer, and working towards a world where the disease no longer poses a significant threat to women's health. Awareness empowers individuals with knowledge about the disease, its risk factors, and the importance of early detection. By understanding breast cancer and its potential impact, people can make informed decisions about their health and take preventive measures. We encourage women to schedule regular screenings, such as mammograms, and perform self-examinations, allowing early detection. When w ..read more