Improving the Health of Rural Texans
Since 1984
Rural Hospital Closures.
Physician Shortage.
Medically Underserved Areas.
These are among the key issues addressed by the Texas Rural Health Association (TRHA), based in Abilene, TX. We bring leaders together from across the state to improve the health of rural Texans through advocacy, communication, and education.
Supported by your membership, here are some highlights of what we do:
We support programs that address key rural health issues, such as shortages in medical services.
For example, we worked with Hendrick Health System and AHEC to increase the number of certified Community Health Workers in West Texas. By connecting patients with primary care doctors, CHWs can become important catalysts for improving the overall health of residents in rural areas and relieving stress on hospital emergency rooms.
We draw health professionals to events that promote collaboration and networking.
Major events planned for 2020 include the Rural Hospital Symposium April 29 in Abilene, TX, and the Rural Healthcare Symposium July 18 in Tyler, TX.
We work closely with policy-makers.
We ensure our members’ interests are represented in state legislative sessions.
We raise awareness on news and policies affecting rural patients and providers.
Check out our Facebook page and the news feed below from the Rural Health Information Hub.
Consider These
Membership
Advantages
- Advocacy and representation
- Useful and timely education programs
- Publications and social media
- Member-driven programs and services
- Peer networking opportunities
Our Mission
TRHA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose primary goal is to improve the health of rural Texans. Our members are dedicated to providing leadership on rural healthcare issues throughout Texas.
Member Benefits
Thinking of joining? Find out about all the benefits of becoming a member.
Mark Your Calendar
Meet those leading rural healthcare initiatives across Texas at a solution-oriented event.
Why Texas Rural Healthcare Matters
64
Total number of counties in Texas without a hospital.
25
Total number of counties in Texas without a primary care physician
75%
Percentage of Texas counties that are federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA) and/or Medically Underserved Areas (MUA)
For reliable news coverage on state healthcare issues, we recommend following the Texas Observer and Texas Tribune. TRHA is also associated with the National Rural Health Association.
See more information regarding the state of rural healthcare
Texas Rural Health Basic Facts
Texas covers 261,797 square miles, with a 2018 estimated population of 28,701,845 people – 3,073,050 living in rural Texas (USDA-ERS). It ranks second among U.S. states in both area and population.
The Rural Health Care Crisis, Mapped
Rural Americans bear the brunt of the country’s doctor shortages—and in Texas, home to the largest rural population of any state, it’s especially acute.
Helpful Articles on Texas Healthcare
Looking for some informative articles on healthcare in the state of Texas? See more here from the Texas Observer.
Become a Member
Join us in improving the health of rural Texans© 2021 Texas Rural Health Association. All Rights Reserved.
