West Virginia
Division of Rural Health
WELCOME!

The Division of Rural Health serves as the focal point for rural health issues in West Virginia and contributes to innovative approaches for addressing rural health care needs of our citizens. The Division collaboratively plans and develops policy, provides technical assistance and provides statewide coordination of rural health activities.

Programs and Projects

Rural Hospital Flexibility Program
The Rural Hospital Flexibility (Flex) Program is a statewide program that encourages regionalized systems of care and enhances the availability of primary health care services through the designation of Critical Access Hospitals. The goal of the Flex Program is to maintain essential health care services in rural communities.

Minority Health Program
The Minority Health Program assists organizations, health care providers, government agencies, minority communities, and the general public by acting as a resource in efforts to decrease morbidity among minorities. The program also strives to identify and eliminate disparities in health status and assure access to quality medical care for the total minority population in West Virginia.

Recruitable Community Program
The Recruitable Community Project (RCP) was initiated in West Virginia in 1998 and focuses on increasing a rural community’s recruiting potential through community development and increased knowledge of recruitment and retention issues.

Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference
The purpose of the Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference is to offer education, information, and networking opportunities to health care providers, policymakers, and communities. In pursuit of overall health of West Virginians, the conference includes interesting forums, special event meetings, and breakout sessions.

Other Activities
Other activities that we perform include partnering with the community through initiatives such as the WV Rural Health Education Partnerships, the Small Rural Hospital Improvement Grant Program and the Rural Health Systems Program.

Mark Your Calendar

16th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference
October 28-30, 2008
Glade Springs Resort
Daniels, WV