Rural Health Awards

This recipient should be a tireless advocate for rural health issues. The nominee has repeatedly demonstrated his/her commitment to rural health through grassroots efforts or policy changes. The Rural Health Advocate of the Year inspires others to understand the significance rural health care plays for Oklahomans across the state by engaging (other) elected officials in discussions and promoting policies that support rural health care.

This recipient should be an outstanding rural health leader who uses a comprehensive or unique approach to address a specific rural health issue; demonstrates an ability to guide others through complicated rural health issues to achieve a set goal, and/or creates a network or partnership with others to create programs or initiatives that benefit rural Oklahomans.

This recipient has a proven record of educating rural health care students, current workforce, or community members, or who has developed a successful and unique education program for rural Oklahomans.

This award category recognizes the tireless efforts made by a healthcare professional during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The nominee is a healthcare worker of any level in a rural setting who exceeds the job expectations in an effort to care for the population served.

This recipient is a physician/practitioner who goes above and beyond for patients. The nominee serves a rural community and understands the unique complexities of the environment, working tirelessly to address the needs of the patients and communities served.