The United States is facing a rural Health crisis that includes a shortage of healthcare workers, challenges in access to women’s health services and Mental Health services, and preparedness limitations in the event of a public health crisis. ORAU is hosting a workshop on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, to launch a Rural Health Research Innovation Cluster (RIC). The RIC will bring together members of ORAU’s University Consortium to focus on solving the complex problems that impact rural health and resilience while also focusing on the federal government’s rural health priorities. Brenda Blunt, senior director of health and resiliency strategy, and Casey Thomas, strategic partnerships and engagement manager in ORAU’s Research and University Partnerships Office, preview the August workshop and discuss why rural health is a priority topic for ORAU.

To learn more about the Rural Health Research Innovation Cluster and the priority areas to be discussed, check out our blog: https://www.orau.org/blog/projects/orau-to-address-nations-rural-health-challenges-with-research-innovation-cluster-meeting.html

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