The rural information center that helps connect the community to services

TOWN OF AURORA, NY (WKBW) — People living in rural communities face unique challenges when it comes to accessing health care and other social services.

On Thursday, National Rural Health Day, I visited the Rural Advancement Center in the city of Aurora, which tries to help connect people to services that are rarely located in rural areas.

“That’s our biggest challenge here,” said Nichole Barrett, program director at the Center for Rural Advancement. “There aren’t a lot of resources available for our kids and then for our families.”

Kelly Shanahan, the care coordinator at the center, said there is a widespread lack of health care facilities in rural areas.

“And on top of that there’s no transportation,” she said.

Medicaid-covered taxi rides should be available for patients with transportation problems.

But Shanahan said that can be a problem, too.

“A lot of times taxis don’t show up in rural areas, and if they do, they’re late,” Shanahan said. “People often have to wait all day to even get a Medicaid taxi back home from their appointments. They often have to travel an hour just to get to a primary care physician.”

It’s something Kristie, a mum from South Wales, said she was experiencing.

Kristie, who did not want to give her last name, said she came to the center for therapy sessions. It’s only a 10 minute drive to get to them. But that’s rarely the case for any other types of appointments, such as the ones she needs for ongoing care for her heart health and for her daughter, who suffers from severe chronic migraines.

“Things are far away. Most doctors, hospitals, urgent cares, emergency rooms, specialists are within a 20 to 30 minute drive in my personal vehicle from home,” she said.

Kristie appreciates the help she and her family receive through the center.

“All the people are fantastic. They definitely care about you and will try to help you. And if I can’t help you right away, I can certainly connect you with other resources,” she said.

The Rural Advancement Center is located at 730 Olean Road, East Aurora. Services include counseling, play therapy, care coordination and community support groups.

You can call 716-240-2220 or visit their website here.