In this special episode of Rural Health Pulse, we reconnect with the inaugural class of the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) Family Medicine Residency Program as they prepare to graduate. Joined by Program Director Dr. Amanda Vaglia and residents Dr. Mohit Chhatpar, Dr. Tanvi Bharathan, Dr. Nawar Al Janabi, and Dr. Robin Rodriguez, we reflect on the growth, challenges, and rewards of practicing rural medicine. The residents share candid insights into what surprised them most, what they’ve learned, and how the experience has shaped their future paths—from addiction medicine to geriatrics to family medicine with obstetrics. Dr. Vaglia also discusses the program’s broader impact on the hospital and community, and the legacy this first class leaves behind. This conversation is a powerful look at the promise of rural medical education and the passion that drives tomorrow’s rural physicians.

In this episode of Rural Health Pulse, we speak with Emelia Rippen, Trauma Program Manager at Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), about the journey to establishing a Level 4 Trauma Center in a rural community. A lifelong Indiana County resident and experienced nurse leader, Rippen shares how IRMC responded to a critical need for trauma care by launching a program that now plays a vital role in stabilizing patients and coordinating emergency care across a large geographic area. We explore the unique challenges of rural trauma response, the rigorous path to accreditation, and the power of partnerships with EMS, regional hospitals, and community organizations. 

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Stallings, President and CEO of The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP), to explore her leadership role and the organization's vital mission in supporting hospitals, health systems, and patients across the Commonwealth. Stallings shares key facts about HAP’s statewide impact and dives into the major initiatives shaping healthcare delivery in Pennsylvania—from rural health equity and workforce development to policy advocacy and innovation. Whether you're a healthcare professional, policymaker, or community advocate, this episode offers essential insight into the organization at the forefront of Pennsylvania’s healthcare landscape.

In this episode, we sit down with Indiana County Commissioner Sherene Hess to explore the intersection of rural revitalization and rural health. Commissioner Hess shares insights from her leadership role not only in Indiana County, but also through her work with the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP). With a focus on collaborative efforts, she discusses the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities today—ranging from healthcare access and infrastructure to workforce development and quality of life. Whether you’re a policymaker, healthcare advocate, or community leader, this conversation offers valuable perspective on how you can drive meaningful progress in Pennsylvania’s rural regions.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Theresa Gropelli, Director of the Nursing Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), to explore the various nursing degree programs offered at IUP. Dr. Gropelli provides valuable insights into how IUP's nursing department blends immersive education with simulation labs and fieldwork experiences to ensure that students are well-prepared for successful careers in nursing. She also discusses the department’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for registered nurses and how the program continues to evolve to meet healthcare industry needs. Dr. Gropelli highlights the significance of hands-on learning in shaping the next generation of nursing professionals and shares the ways IUP is supporting students through innovative educational strategies. 

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of regional planning in rural communities with Byron Stauffer, Executive Director of the Indiana County Office of Planning and Development. We explore how regional planning and development influence social determinants of health. Byron shares insights into the multifaceted role of his department, which includes business attraction, retention, startup entrepreneurship, and administering loan and incentive programs. We also discuss the importance of community partnerships with organizations like the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce, the Indiana County Development Corporation, the Indiana County Tourist Bureau, and Indiana University of Pennsylvania in improving the quality of life for Indiana County residents. 

In this episode, we explore the mental and behavioral health challenges faced by rural communities with guest Tammy Calderone, Administrator for the Armstrong-Indiana Behavioral and Developmental Health Program. Together, we discuss the growing demand for services, barriers to accessing care, and the collaborative efforts of agencies and organizations working to address these critical needs. 

 In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Dr. Miko Rose, the visionary founding dean of the proposed IUP College of Medicine. Dr. Rose shares insights into the mission and future of the college, including the exciting plans to launch Pennsylvania's first public Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the inspiration behind the initiative, Dr. Rose's passion for advancing medical education, and the unique opportunities this new program will offer to future healthcare professionals. Tune in for an engaging conversation about innovation, leadership, and the future of osteopathic medicine in rural Pennsylvania.

This is the third and final installment of a special three-part series that will share highlights from the 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference.  In this episode we discuss the medical applications of Drones with Ms. Alice Griffith and Ms. Erica Tamburo of Airspace Link, Inc. We also speak with Mr. Matthew Capell of Mainstreet Health regarding innovative solutions to delivering value-based care in rural communities. 

This is the second installment of a special three-part series that will share highlights from the 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference.  In this episode we discuss the PA Rural Health model with Jack Sisk, President of Punxsutawney Area Hospital, the role of Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) with Dr. Dennis Gingrich and reflections of a rural physician with Dr. Richard Whalen.