Citizen participation in rural health: a promising resource

The role of consumers in rural health care is explored in this review of the literature. A brief history of public, private, and grassroots efforts to involve consumers in health care is presented. A more in-depth analysis of two primary areas where consumers can be useful resources for addressing rural health care problems--personnel shortages and improving community acceptance of health care innovations--is discussed. Emergency medical services, care for medically disabled persons, and prenatal care are specifically addressed. Barriers to effective citizen participation and policy recommendations are also presented.