Collaborating for Rural Health

The Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement at IU Bloomington works in full-spectrum community innovation through research, community-engaged teaching and student service, building vision, harnessing assets and cultivating sustainable leadership structures within the communities with which it engages to ensure long-term success. The Center connects the broad resources of IU Bloomington and its region through collaborative initiatives. 

One example of collaboration in which the Center is currently engaged is working to provide health screenings in rural Indiana through partnership with the IU School of Medicine. 

Health screenings are critical to reducing the impact of chronic disease, the leading cause of death in Indiana according to the State Department of Health. Through collaboration with the National Center of Excellence in Women’s Health at the IU School of Medicine, this initiative will bring “Wellness on Wheels” to women in rural communities, providing free health assessments, including BMI, blood pressure and blood sugar. Physicians, medical students, and nurse practitioners will discuss participants’ screening results and lifestyle questionnaire to educate them about making healthy choices across their lifespan and address underlying barriers to success, such as mental health concerns. Participants will receive follow-up care and referrals customized to their health needs and goals. Medical students will connect directly with rural communities while supporting these screenings, increasing their understanding of rural health needs and resources. 

Help the IU Center for Rural Engagement reach its IU Day campaign goal of $2,500. Your gift can help support projects like “Wellness on Wheels,” that plans to launch a mobile screening in rural Indiana and connect up to 60 women with health assessments and wellness resources. This is just one way the Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement and the School of Medicine are partnering for healthier Indiana communities.