In January 2003, the Center for Rural Health and Social Services Development conducted a training needs assessment for non-profit health care and social service providers in the southern Illinois region.

The overall goal of the ongoing project is to assess, impact and improve overall provision of rural health care and social service delivery to the southern Illinois region by focusing on training availability, accessibility, and content. The needs assessment is scheduled to be conducted every other year. The results will provide a basis for training needs to be addressed through the collaborative efforts of local non-profit organizations, community colleges and Southern Illinois University.

Participation in the survey was voluntary; however, we hope that this community collaboration will serve as a statewide model for rural health care and social service provider research and training that will increase professional development opportunities, enhance skill levels and improve overall performance for a variety of positions within the rural service delivery area.

Results are summarized in the following categories:

Family/Parenting Services
Community Mental Health
Community Health Center/Clinic
Public Health
Senior Services
Hospital
Social Services
Pregnancy Services
Domestic Violence Services
Long-Term Care
Rehabilitation
Home Health Care
Substance Abuse Services (no participants)
Youth/Adolescent Services