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This Is Rural Healtha twice-monthly podcast from the California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA) Author: California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA)
This Is Rural Health, is a twice-monthly podcast from the California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA). The CSRHA is focused on ensuring that the needs and voices of rural Californians are expressed and heard and continually works toward improving the quality and length of life of rural Californians. This podcast, like the CSRHA, brings together leaders in rural healthcare with policy advisors, community leaders, and other forward thinkers to gain a better understanding of what is happening across todays rural healthcare ecosystem. Hear the unique perspectives of these industry and community leaders and how they are finding innovative solutions to the challenges of a rapidly changing and increasingly complex healthcare industry. We cover topics such as leading with resilience in a post COVID-19 paradigm, telehealth, and the rising costs of patient care all through the lens of our rural communities. Guests also share their insights, lessons learned and predictions about the future of rural healthcare. The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more information visit our website at csrha.org Language: en Genres: Health & Fitness, Medicine, Mental Health Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Beyond Books: Rural Libraries as Partners in Community Health
Episode 60
Thursday, 23 July, 2026
What if one of the most important healthcare partners in your community isn't a clinic or hospital—but your local library?In this episode of the California State Rural Health Association Podcast, Lisa Lindsay, Library Programs Consultant with the California State Library, shares how rural libraries are evolving into trusted community health hubs. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in public libraries, Lisa reveals how libraries are helping bridge healthcare gaps through innovative partnerships, trusted relationships, and creative programming that reaches people where they already feel comfortable.From telehealth access and blood pressure monitor lending programs to emergency preparedness, literacy services, nutrition education, and health resource fairs, Lisa demonstrates how libraries are addressing the social drivers of health in ways many healthcare organizations have yet to discover. She also shares inspiring examples from rural and tribal communities across California, highlighting how collaboration between libraries, public health agencies, nonprofits, and healthcare providers is creating healthier, more connected communities.Whether you're a rural healthcare leader, public health professional, librarian, or community advocate, this conversation will challenge the way you think about community partnerships—and reveal why libraries may be one of healthcare's most underutilized assets.In this episode, you'll learn:Why libraries have become trusted access points for health information and services.How rural libraries are expanding access through telehealth, health screenings, and wellness programming.The impact of the Rural Health Connections Project across California.How partnerships with organizations like the American Heart Association are improving cardiovascular health through the Libraries with Heart initiative.Practical ideas for healthcare organizations looking to collaborate with local libraries to better serve rural communities.Healthcare doesn't only happen in hospitals and clinics—it happens wherever people gather, learn, and trust. This episode offers a fresh perspective on building healthier rural communities through unexpected partnerships.Listen now to discover why the future of rural health may begin with a library card.Connect with Lisa Lindsay:LinkedInResourcesRural Health Connections Project (California)Libraries with Heart (American Heart Association partnership)California State Library (Library Programs & Rural Initiatives)The CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.
