Unincorporated Networks and Coalitions

Unincorporated networks and coalitions operate along a spectrum of formality. Formal networks and coalitions have more organizational structure than informal networks and coalitions (such as the Patient, Consumer and Public Health Coalition). In both cases, members collaboratively determine the direction in which the networks move.

Formal Networks and Coalitions

Funders often look upon formal health networks or coalitions as forward-thinking organizations for leveraging limited resources. Formal networks and coalitions consist of autonomous members sharing knowledge and resources. The formality entails signing a Memorandum of Agreement/Understanding (MOA/MOU), which, while not a legally binding document, represents a member's investment and agreement to participate in the network or coalition. Typically the document includes an overview of goals and activities of the network or coalition and provides details on the signing member's role and responsibilities. Rural Health Innovations has developed guidelines for what to include in your MOA/MOU.

Some examples of formal health networks include:

Informal Networks and Coalitions

Informal rural networks and coalitions are often ad hoc, have fluid membership, and don't have formal governance structures in place. When organized informally, networks and coalitions are often self-sufficient and sustain themselves on in-kind contributions from members. Because of the informality and limited documentation and processes, informal networks are intrinsically restricted in what they are able to accomplish, yet their value should not be underrated. In some circumstances, informal networks develop into formal collaborations.

The Patient, Consumer, and Public Health Coalition is an example of an informal coalition.

Resources to Learn More

Federal Office of Rural Health Policy: Rural Community Programs
Website
Grant funding opportunities for a variety of rural health issues, including network development.
Organization(s): Federal Office of Rural Health Policy

Organizational Structure: An Overview
Website
Provides detailed information on how to organize a coalition.
Organization(s): Community Tool Box

Rural Health Network Development: Public Policy Issues and State Initiatives
Document
Article outlining the importance of identifying a formal definition of Rural Health Network so as to lend credibility to the work they're doing and significantly improve rural healthcare.
Author(s): Casey, M., Wellever, A., & Moscovice, I.
Organization: University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center
Date: 2/1997