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Rural Health
News by Topic: Behavioral health workforce

Mar 12, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is requesting information to assist in the development of a national standard of practice for VA peer specialists. Outlines the proposed national standard of practice for VA peer specialists, who are Veterans who self-identify with a lived experience of recovery from a mental health condition and have been professionally trained to help other Veterans with similar experiences. Comments are due by May 13, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
Mar 5, 2024 - Discusses challenges with accessing mental healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Notes workforce shortages and low pay as contributors to limited access. Also discusses challenges for military service members including long wait times for appointments.
Source: U.S. Government Accountability Office
Feb 9, 2024 - Summarizes recent research finding that behavioral workforce participation in training programs focused on rural and other underserved communities leads to greater retention and job satisfaction in rural communities.
Source: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Feb 8, 2024 - Profiles a Nebraska family working to reduce suicide in their rural area by addressing stigma. Discusses behavioral health workforce shortages in Nebraska and integrating mental healthcare into school settings.
Source: 1011 Now
Feb 7, 2024 - Highlights proposed legislation in Colorado to address availability of mental health resources for the agricultural community. Discusses mental healthcare workforce shortages, distances to care, and the unique barriers experienced by migrant workers.
Source: KFF Health News