Community Health
Rural communities in West Texas face unique challenges, including geographic isolation and socioeconomic disadvantages, which negatively influence the health of their residents. Yet, in spite of these disparities, the same communities can expand upon strengths and skills they already possess to combat these challenges and create a healthy living environment. Development of reliable communication networks, supportive public policies, and adequate care options will enable these communities to address local health problems and prepare for potential emergencies more effectively. |
Current Work
We are engaged in a collaborative project with the Texas Department of State Health Services looking at how prepared communities in the rural areas of the Texas South Plains and Panhandle would be should a flu pandemic occur. In the course of this project, we will determine current levels of awareness and preparedness among rural residents, provide a platform for planning for special needs populations, and begin a public awareness campaign. The knowledge that we gain from this project will help the communities, region, and state better prepare not only for the possibility of a flu pandemic, but other emergency situations as well.