2025 Community Stars

In celebration of National Rural Health Day, NOSORH proudly presents the 2025 Community Stars! The Community Stars recognition program honors individuals and organizations going above and beyond to improve rural health across the nation. From doctors, nurses, and public health leaders to hospitals, educators, emergency responders, and community-based organizations, these Stars reflect the incredible people and organizations making a difference.

Spanning 47 states, this year’s Community Stars embody the Power of Rural through their compassion, innovation, and collaboration. Each Star, selected by State Offices of Rural Health and other rural advocates, represents a story of leadership and resilience; proof that extraordinary things happen when rural communities come together.

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Amite Rural Health Clinic (Hood Memorial Hospital)

Amite, Louisiana

In a region defined by its rural nature and limited healthcare resources, Amite Rural Health Clinic stands as a beacon of accessible, comprehensive care. Through proactive community engagement, the clinic delivers vital services—screenings, health education, and preventive care—to residents who might otherwise go without.

What is your organization’s mission and impact on rural health?

Amite Rural Health Clinic (ARHC), a division of Hood Memorial Hospital, provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare for residents of Tangipahoa Parish and surrounding rural communities. Our mission is not only to treat illness but to serve with empathy and a hometown approach that reflects the values of the people we care for. Being located just one block from Hood Memorial Hospital allows us to coordinate care seamlessly for patients who may require additional hospital services.

What has been one of the most rewarding moments or accomplishments working in rural health?

One of our most rewarding accomplishments has been hosting two free health fairs each year, providing hundreds of residents with screenings such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks. Many patients discovered undiagnosed conditions and received timely interventions that likely prevented serious health complications. Seeing community members return to thank our providers for “catching something early” reinforces the importance of our work and the difference it makes in rural lives.

Describe when your organization implemented an innovative approach to address a challenge within your rural community.

Recognizing that many rural residents delay care due to work schedules or transportation limitations, ARHC implemented an “after 4 p.m. walk-in only” model for primary care. This reduced appointment bottlenecks, increased patient volume, and gave working families easier access to care without missing work. This approach has been well-received, resulting in improved patient satisfaction and earlier intervention for minor illnesses before they become more serious.

Share an example of a successful collaboration your organization has been part of and how it benefited the community.

ARHC has partnered with local colleges and universities for our Community Health Fairs, combining academic resources with local healthcare expertise. Together, we provide free screenings and educational presentations while also giving health students hands-on community experience. This benefits the community by expanding access to preventive services and health education while fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals committed to serving rural populations.

How does your organization embody the “Power of Rural”?

We embody the “Power of Rural” by ensuring that quality healthcare is available, accessible, and personal—right here in the community where our patients live, work, and raise their families. We know our patients by name, understand their challenges, and adapt our services to meet their needs.

What role has your State Office of Rural Health played in supporting your organization?

ARHC has benefited from the Louisiana State Office of Rural Health’s resources, technical assistance, and educational opportunities. Their support has strengthened our ability to provide top-tier care while navigating the unique challenges of serving a rural population.

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