2011 Policy Institute Update

A group of Coloradans traveled to Washington DC this week to attend the National Rural Health Association’s Policy Institute to learn more about the federal health policy landscape and how it impacts rural Colorado. Seven members hit the Hill on Tuesday to meet with our two Senators and seven Representatives (including new members Scott Tipton and Cory Gardner), educating our lawmakers about issues facing rural healthcare providers and consumers in their districts and asking for their support in sustaining critical programs. While funding levels are still being negotiated, all Colorado lawmakers expressed support for rural health providers and programs and understand the need for programs that promote a strong healthcare workforce and ensure access to care for our rural residents. They also asked for help in keeping their district and DC offices updated on local issues and concerns (check out CRHC’s website for how to contact your elected officials). A very special thanks to the Policy Institute participants who took these important messages to our lawmakers on behalf of rural Colorado.