SPECTRE is launching a new Rural Health Work Group to bring together professionals from across HHS Region 6 who are committed to strengthening preparedness for high-consequence infectious diseases (HCIDs) and other emergency response challenges in rural healthcare settings.
Rural communities often face unique obstacles during public health emergencies, including limited resources, workforce constraints, and geographic barriers. This work group will provide a collaborative forum for professionals to share experiences, identify common challenges, and develop practical strategies that enhance readiness across rural healthcare systems.
We are seeking participation from a diverse group of professionals working in rural health, including EMS personnel, public health professionals, healthcare providers, emergency managers, hospital leaders, and others with an interest in improving HCID preparedness. By bringing together perspectives from multiple disciplines, the work group aims to foster partnerships and support solutions that are practical, sustainable, and tailored to the needs of resource-limited communities.
If you work in a rural healthcare setting and are interested in contributing to this collaborative effort, we invite you to express your interest by completing our interest form. We look forward to working with partners across the region to strengthen preparedness where it is needed most.