Critical Access Hospitals: Challenges and Opportunities



Description:
The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 enacted legislation to support state-driven initiatives to strengthen our nation’s rural health care infrastructure. States are authorized to establish State Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Programs, commonly called the Flex Program. States can provide resources to develop and implement rural health care plans. Learn about Critical Access Hospitals, and how being a part of one can make a difference in rural health care.

Date of Release: 10/25/2007 Course Termination Date: 10/25/2009

System Requirements: Microsoft Windows based PC, preferably high speed Internet connection

Credit: Greensboro AHEC designates this activity for a maximum of 2.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits ™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Accreditation: This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Standards of the North Carolina Medical Society through the joint sponsorship of the Greensboro AHEC, the NC Office of Rural Health and Community Care, and FirstHealth of the Carolinas. The Greensboro AHEC is accredited by the North Carolina Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Disclosure: Greensboro AHEC adheres to ACCME Standards regarding industry support of continuing medical education. Angela Connor has no actual or potential conflict of financial interests in relation to this program. Speakers will also state when offlabel or experimental use of drugs or devices is incorporated into their presentation.
The planning committee consisting of Tina Latham, Renea Paradis, Karen Zeliff, and Kerry Hensley have no actual or potential conflict of interest in relation to this program.

Learning Objectives:
- Describe the characteristics of a Critical Access Hospital
- Identify the health and health access barriers faced by rural residents
- Explain the unique opportunities Critical Access Hospitals present for physicians
- Examine several case studies that demonstrate physician decision-making processes for admission at a small, rural Critical Access Hospital or patient transfer.

Author(s):
Angela Conner
Community Health Consultant
Connor Communications and Consulting, Inc.

Target Audience:
Physicians

Length: 2 hours

Credit Type(s): 2 AMA PRA Category I

Cost: $0.00