Most people drive across town to see the doctor, but for some rural residents, the trip isn't so easy. Fort Bragg resident Robert James* traveled nearly 100 miles for an appointment at the Redbud Family Health Center in Clearlake, Calif. After a four-hour bus trip, he did the last three miles on foot.

By the time James's appointment ended, he'd missed the last bus home. He was prepared though — sleeping bag in tow — to sleep outside. But when James's physician heard of the plan, he booked him a hotel room. Not only did the doctor pay for the room, he also mapped out his route home before personally taking him to the motel. Thanks to the physician's medical expertise, James was on the road to better health — and thanks to the kindness he received, James's heart was touched as well.

Meeting the Needs of Lake County

"This is the epitome of what we do," stated Ilona Horton, BS, MPA, administrative director of rural health clinics and cardiopulmonary services at Redbud Community Hospital. "At the end of the day, we know we really make a difference."

Serving a very rural area, Adventist Health's three clinics in Lake County are incredibly busy. "Our clinics are a huge contribution to the community as most private practice physicians are unable to accept Medi-Cal," Horton said. "Without this rural health program, I don't know where our patients would go."

Service Shines in Central California

Also accommodating people in need, Central Valley Family Health and its network of 14 clinics are the first stop for those who cannot afford commercial health insurance. With locations in three counties, the network's service area spans thousands of square miles.

"Our clinics have grown to meet the needs of our rural communities," said Derrick Gruen, PT, MPT, administrative director for rural health, rehabilitation and sleep center services at CVGH. Indeed, the clinics provide not only primary care services, but mental health, dental and access to specialty care, imaging and surgery. "We continue to look for new programs and specialists to provide the best care possible for our patients."

With dedicated employees, caring physicians and expanding services, Gruen added, "We strive to be the best place to practice medicine, the best place to work and the best place to get care."

New Clinic Adds Glory to Paradise

In the splendor of Paradise (California, that is), Feather River Hospital is looking forward to the opening of a brand-new rural health clinic, designed to replace existing facilities and increase care. FRH's three rural health clinics will be consolidated in this larger facility to increase efficiency and accommodate more patients.

With medical, dental and behavioral health services, FRH's rural health clinics currently provide thousands of patient visits per month with caring and expertise.

"If the clinics weren't here, our patients wouldn't get the continuity of care they need," said Jennifer Noel, administrative director of rural health at FRH. "Our staff is here because of the satisfaction they get from helping a population in need. It feels good to work with such a great team."

* Pseudonym