Mountain State Times

West Virginia will join other states in observing National Rural Health Day on November 21, 2024. Governor Jim Justice made the proclamation as part of efforts to recognize rural healthcare providers and communities. In conjunction with this event, the West Virginia Department of Health’s State Office of Rural Health (SORH) has released the Fall 2024 edition of “Country Roads.” This publication aims to highlight innovative health programs and strategies improving health outcomes in West Virginia's rural areas.

Cabinet Secretary Sherri Young expressed that having the magazine available for Rural Health Day is a valuable resource. "We always want to recognize and uplift our rural healthcare providers and partners," she stated. Young encouraged everyone to explore the magazine to learn more about healthcare in less accessible communities.

Lisa Lewis, SORH Interim Director, added her excitement about sharing the latest edition of “Country Roads,” which she believes reflects their commitment to enhancing rural populations' health and well-being. She hopes it serves as a valuable resource for community leaders, healthcare providers, and residents.

Over the past year, SORH has published two issues of “Country Roads” and secured a five-year grant exceeding $3 million for the WV Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Program. The office has also held regional rural health meetings involving clinics across West Virginia and promoted provider loan repayment and J-1 Visa waiver programs supporting numerous patient-care encounters statewide.