Pennsylvania Models and Innovations

These stories feature model programs and successful rural projects that can serve as a source of ideas. Some of the projects or programs may no longer be active. Read about the criteria and evidence-base for programs included.

Other Project Examples

Pennsylvania Rural Health Farm Worker Protection Safety Program

Updated/reviewed May 2020

• Need: Agricultural producers and Pennsylvania's diverse farmworker population needed guidance on complying with Environmental Protection Agency regulations on the safe use of pesticides used in agricultural production.
• Intervention: An outreach education program providing compliance and technical assistance for growers was developed which included culturally appropriate training materials targeted to workers.
• Results: Pesticide use training and other farm safety information is now readily available to Pennsylvania's farmers and farmworkers.

Garrett County Regional Cancer Patient Navigator Program

Updated/reviewed March 2020

• Need: Comprehensive cancer services for residents of an 8-county, 3-state area in Appalachia.
• Intervention: Using a Cancer Patient Navigation Tool Kit, a Maryland acute care facility led a multidisciplinary collaboration that provided the area's patients with expanded cancer treatment services.
• Results: In addition to several new cancer-related programs, expanded services are now available for cancer patients, families, and cancer survivors.

Optimal Health Behavioral Health Home Models

Updated/reviewed December 2019

• Need: A healthcare delivery model to improve health and well-being of Pennsylvania patients with serious mental illness in Pennsylvania, especially those in rural settings.
• Intervention: County human service administrators, patients, families, a behavioral health provider network, and a nonprofit behavioral health managed care organization implemented 2 versions of a behavioral home health model focusing on a complete culture of wellness.
• Results: These unique models significantly increased patient activation, engagement in both primary and specialty care, and improved client perception of their mental health status.

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