How Rural Hospitals Help Their Community

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “hospital”? Do you picture white coats and nurses? Do you think about all the hi-tech equipment? Maybe you envision patients laying in beds? It is also possible that you start to feel the emotions commonly associated with sickness and healing.

All these responses would be more than fair; however, hospitals in rural communities are so much more than a combination of their parts.

It’s true that all of these are common thoughts of any hospital, but there are many more ways in which a hospital impacts its community. Especially in rural areas, like the one Bucktail Medical Center is serving.

PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE CARE
Small rural hospitals deliver not only traditional hospital services such as emergency care, inpatient care, and laboratory testing, but they also provide rehabilitation, home health care, and even primary care. This is important as it gives community members alternatives to traveling long distances for equal care.

SERVING THOSE IN NEED
Numerous studies have shown that rural Americans are more likely to die from heart disease, cancer, unintentional injury, respiratory disease, and stroke than their urban counterparts. Rural Americans also experience an approximate 50% increase in unintentional injury deaths, in part due to long travel distances to the nearest providers.

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY
Rural hospitals are commonly one of the largest employers in rural areas. On average, 14% of total employment in rural communities are in the healthcare setting. The presence of a stable hospital also attracts new businesses and industries, while bringing and retaining visitors, workers, and retirees to the rural area.

UNDERSTANDING THE COMMUNITY
Rural hospital professionals also live where their patients live. They know the local history, news, and tendencies. They understand the community’s concerns and values. The doctors, nurses, and staff aren’t simply hospital employees, they are also neighbors.
This is one of our primary values at Bucktail Medical Center. We provide high quality care to our neighbors in a stable and well-respected facility. Whether you’ve experienced an emergency, require laboratory testing or surgery, or are looking for general practitioner; Bucktail Medical Center is here to meet you, and your needs. Call 570-923-1000 with questions.