2021 Rural Health Awards Nominations

An Awards Event Celebrating Excellence in Rural Health

Each year LRHA honors outstanding individuals and organizations in the field of rural health who have dedicated their time and talents to improving the health and well-being of others. Previous recipients have stretched the boundaries of possibility by forging innovative programs and services, making rural life healthier and more compassionate. The 2021 Rural Health Awards will be presented on Monday, December 6th during the opening ceremony of the Virtual Rural Heath Workshop.

Consider nominating your favorite rural health individual, program or organization so that they may be honored for their contributions to rural health!

Nomination Guidelines

·    Nominations will be accepted from any individual, organizational, or supporting member in good standing.

·    Selections will be made solely on the basis of a 300-500 word narrative, which is part of the nomination form. To ensure accountability, either the nominee or nominator must have a connection to LRHA through membership.

·    In addition to the nomination form, supporting documents such as press releases, videos, articles, and other publications are recommended; however, not required.

·    All submitted nominations will be reviewed by the Awards Committee which consists of rural health care professionals appointed to this post by the LRHA Executive Director and Board of Directors.

·    All nominations must be completed and submitted to LRHA via email to lynne@eatmovegrow.us . All submissions must be received on or before October 22, 2021.

Awards Presentation and Recognition

The 2021 Awards presentation will be held during the 2021 Virtual Rural Health Workshop. Awardees will be featured in a video presentation. Awardees will receive a plaque or award appropriate for display.

Rural Health Awards Categories

Outstanding Rural Health Organization

The Outstanding Rural Health Organization Award recognizes any community-based group or organization that has improved access to health services and information for rural people through innovative, comprehensive approaches. Factors considered include outreach, preventive health and education, quality and efficiency of care, and strong community support and involvement.

Outstanding Rural Health Program

The Outstanding Rural Health Program Award recognizes a community, regional or statewide program involving one or more health professionals or entities that promotes or facilitates the development of rural health delivery systems. Factors considered include coordination of services with other health care agencies to avoid duplication of services, networking and collaboration with other health care entities to achieve common goals, innovation in development and implementation, and lasting impact on populations and areas served.

Rural Health Practitioner of the Year

The Rural Health Practitioner of the Year Award recognizes a direct service provider for leadership in bringing health services to rural populations. This award is meant to be inclusive of all health disciplines (e.g. dentistry, optometry, nursing, etc.). Factors taken into consideration include providing outstanding care, involvement in the community, and lasting contributions to the health care system.

Rural Health Professional of the Year

The Rural Health Professional of the Year recognizes a health care administrator, or a community rural health care delivery practice (CAH, CHC or RHC) for contribution/leadership in health care services throughout rural communities. Efforts taken into consideration include providing outstanding leadership, community involvement, lasting contributions to the health care system, as well as their outreach efforts. 

Click below to access Nomination Form

2021 Rural Health Awards Nomination Form