Celebrate National Rural Health Day: Share Your Story with CMS and StoryCorps

Celebrate National Rural Health Day: Share Your Story with CMS and StoryCorps

National Rural Health Day is coming up on November 21, and this year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Office of Minority Health (CMS OMH) has teamed up with StoryCorps to spotlight the unique experiences of those in rural, Tribal, and geographically isolated communities. This special partnership provides an opportunity for individuals in these areas to share their health care challenges and successes, helping to illuminate the realities of rural health care and inspire ongoing improvements in accessibility and quality.

Why Your Story Matters
The lived experiences of those in rural communities are crucial for understanding and addressing the challenges in health care access and delivery. By sharing stories, participants can highlight:

• Challenges in Accessing Health Care: Barriers unique to rural and remote areas.
• Positive Impacts: How initiatives have made a difference locally.
• Innovative Solutions: Creative strategies that communities have developed.
• Future Ideas: Suggestions for improving care access and outcomes.

These shared stories contribute to a larger narrative, bringing to light the needs of rural and Tribal populations while informing strategies to advance equitable health care.

How to Participate
CMS and StoryCorps invite you to participate in virtual recordings from November 6-13, allowing you to discuss your experiences with a trusted conversation partner, such as a colleague or family member. Each 40-minute conversation will be facilitated by StoryCorps staff, with starter questions provided. With permission, conversations will be archived at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress and on StoryCorps’ Online Archive. Selected recordings may also be featured on CMS channels.

Reserve Your Spot

Slots are limited, so make sure to sign up early to secure your chance to share your story. For any questions, contact Murphy Barney at StoryCorps via [email protected]. Let’s celebrate National Rural Health Day by amplifying the voices and experiences of those in rural, Tribal, and isolated communities.