DELIVERY OF PEDIATRIC HEALTH SERVICES IN A RURAL HEALTH CENTER.

The Division of Health Affairs of the Office of Economic Opportunity is currently supporting a number of Neighborhood Health Centers throughout the country. One such "Poverty Program" center is described along with the presentation of the efforts made to provide a comprehensive health action program which directly relates to a poor rural community in Mississippi. Originating in Tufts University School of Medicine 1,500 miles away in Boston, the multidisciplinary team members work both in the field and in the health center itself to involve members of the community within a defined area in the provision of what must he considered to be more than basic medical services. The social, educational, cultural, and psychological factors which are relevant to and influence the health of individuals and groups in the target area are inspected and analyzed. Despite free and accessible medical facilities, various barriers are present which interfere with the delivery of services. Members of the health team must determine both their own priorities and those of the local community in the combined participation of local health councils within the overall program. The possibilities of a teaching exposure for all levels of health personnel in a rural health center must be emphasized along with the vast potential for basic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]