Two North Country healthcare providers will receive federal funding for projects that aim to improve services for rural underserved populations.
The Northern Border Regional Commission announced this week it has awarded $3 million to 13 projects across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York.
Carthage Area Hospital will get $246,706 for the North Star Health Alliance Operations Center. According to a press release, the center "will enhance hospital efficiency and patient care through real-time resource allocation, improved communication, and advanced data analysis, using dashboards to monitor bed availability, staffing, and patient flow." It'll also provide staff training and support, maintain quality and safety monitoring, and regularly update stakeholders
The Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization will get $250,000 to work with the Northern Regional Center for Independent Living to provide three community health workers. These professionals will connect rural high-needs individuals with primary and preventive care, including well visits, cancer screenings, immunizations and transitional and chronic care management. They'll also provide referrals to other clinical, behavioral, and social services as needed.
"Improving access to quality healthcare is essential for ensuring the vitality of our rural communities," NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders said in a statement. "By addressing gaps in the existing healthcare delivery systems, these investments will improve both the quality of life and the health outcomes for residents in our region."