Rural Health Care Services Outreach Grant Program - Arrowleaf proposes the Southern Illinois Rural Healthcare Services Outreach (SIRHSO) program in response to HRSA’s Rural Health Care Services Outreach Program (HRSA-25-038). Targeting Alexander, Johnson, Massac, and Pulaski Counties—all designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) and Medically Underserved Communities/Populations (MUC/MUPs)—the SIRHSO program addresses critical healthcare challenges, including high poverty rates, elevated chronic disease prevalence, and limited access to care. The project qualifies for all three HRSA funding preferences: HPSA designation, Medically Underserved Communities/Populations (MUC/MUPs), and a focus on primary care, wellness, and prevention strategies. The program targets underserved populations disproportionately impacted by poor health outcomes, including low-income individuals who experience financial strain, food insecurity, and barriers to care; veterans facing higher risks of chronic disease and mental health challenges; older adults, who comprise over 20% of the region’s population and are at risk for age-related health issues; and individuals with disabilities, who experience co-occurring chronic conditions and significant access barriers. These populations also struggle with low health literacy, cultural skepticism toward healthcare systems, and geographic isolation, contributing to unmanaged chronic conditions and preventable health crises. The SIRHSO program has three primary goals. First, it will organize a collaborative consortium by building a framework for effective project management, staff training, and quality improvement, resulting in a well-trained network of healthcare providers and community partners delivering integrated care. Second, it will expand preventative healthcare services by increasing screenings, education, and interventions addressing major health risks, improving health outcomes through early detection and reducing the burden of preventable diseases. Third, it will enhance community outreach through the development of strategies to increase awareness and utilization of healthcare services, leading to greater health literacy and engagement among underserved populations. To achieve these goals, the program employs evidence-based models that address the region’s leading causes of death—heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, and unintentional injuries—while promoting wellness and prevention. These include the Food is Medicine model, which addresses food insecurity and nutrition-related health risks; the Collaborative Care Model, which integrates behavioral and physical health services; and the Integrated Care Model, which coordinates care across disciplines to address social determinants of health. Additionally, the Mutual Maintenance Model provides peer support for veterans and individuals with chronic conditions, while Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy empower individuals to adopt healthier behaviors and manage chronic conditions. Arrowleaf’s expertise in rural service delivery, combined with its partnerships with Massac Memorial Hospital, Southern Seven Health Department, and Rural Health, Inc., positions the SIRHSO program to transform healthcare in Southern Illinois. By improving access to care, addressing health disparities, and building trust within underserved communities, the program aligns with HRSA’s vision for sustainable rural healthcare. This initiative will empower residents, enhance wellness, and create a foundation for long-term systemic change.
