RHRC & Access Family Care: A 5-Year Partnership in Action

The Rural Health Research Center (RHRC) partnered with Access Family Care in 2020 when they received funding from the Missouri Partnership to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening. Access is one of eight Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) that receive practice facilitation from RHRC. Practice facilitation is a strategy used in health care, particularly in primary care practices, to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes.

The Missouri Practice Facilitation Model is built on a bi-directional partnership, where experienced professionals with clinical training collaborate closely with health care teams. By understanding the challenges clinic staff face, facilitators foster shared problem-solving and encourage teamwork. They provide technical assistance to primary clinics, helping implement evidence-based strategies to boost colon cancer (CRC) screening rates. Support is tailored through face-to-face meetings, calls and video conferencing, ensuring hands-on guidance for clinic staff.

Through educational retreats, data insights and discussions on screening rates, RHRC equips staff with valuable tools to improve patient outreach. To boost accessibility, RHRC has designed at-home FIT screening instructions with larger text, clear visuals and multiple language options.

In addition, RHRC has developed infographics, pocket cards and exam room reminders to keep screening top of mind for patients. Clinics receive quarterly data updates and annual chart reviews to track progress. The regional safety net resource guide offers essential support, ensuring that small communities have access to care. And, in a creative awareness push, RHRC even secured a giant inflatable colon to spread the word about CRC screening.

Access has made remarkable contributions to health care beyond their partnership with RHRC. Recently, they launched their first Medicaid-only dental clinic in Lamar, MO, expanding essential care to those who need it most.

This article originally appeared in the Lamar Democrat Wednesday, March 26, 2025.