Topics: Nebraska

For more information and resources, see the Nebraska state guide.

Bringing Change for Rural COPD Patients: Possibilities with the COPD National Action Plan

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is number 3 on the cause of death list. In rural America, it’s the sole major chronic disease with increasing death rates. In May 2017, the COPD National Action Plan, a “blueprint for a multi-faceted, unified fight against the disease” was released. Rural stakeholders share perspectives of just how rural Americans with COPD might benefit from the plan’s rural touchpoints.

From over-the-counter medication use, to decisions about personal or family disease treatments, health literacy impacts the most everyday of health decisions. But, distance and internet connectivity challenges make it difficult for rural residents to get health information. To navigate health information gaps, school nurses, newspapers, public libraries, churches, public health departments, and hub-and-spoke academic institutions are working in creative ways.

Highlights three university programs that are embracing distance education to allow professionals to stay in their rural communities while earning a degree.

Profiles of Sarah Thompson and Karrianna Gallagher, students in Creighton University’s Entry-Level Distance Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program – Alaska.

Crete Area Medical Center Physicians’ Clinic and Ammonoosuc Community Health Services are among the very few rural safety net providers that have achieved Level 3 PCMH recognition.

Mental health hotlines and mental health screenings offer critical support in getting people the help they need in a timely manner.

There is not one nationally recommended model for care integration, but local and federal efforts support more widespread use.

The Rural Monitor

Articles and resources on key rural health issues, from the Rural Health Information Hub

Topics: Nebraska

Bringing Change for Rural COPD Patients: Possibilities with the COPD National Action Plan

Rural Health Literacy: Who’s Delivering Health Information?

Education at a Distance: Virtual Classrooms Bring Healthcare Classes to Rural Areas

Students Earn OT Doctorates Through Nebraska-Alaska Program

Rural Patient Centered Medical Homes Achieve New Standards

Hotlines and Mental Health Screenings Provide Needed Support

Models of Care Integration Continue to Evolve