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## Meet the editor

Dr. Christian Rusangwa serves as the Director of Technical Assistance at Muso Health, where he leads the organization's vision for improved access to primary and community health care with speed and quality in Mali and the Ivory Coast. He also worked for Partners in Health as Deputy Chief Medical Officer in charge of Chronic Care and Health System Strengthening. Dr. Rusangwa has supported district health systems that serve

more than 1,000,000 people. In addition, Dr. Rusangwa oversaw the technical and financial support of a cancer center of excellence in Butaro, Rwanda, the only center in the region to provide free cancer diagnosis and care. He is a global health and operational research expert pushing for access to health care for all.

## Contents




Preface

In the quiet corners of our world, far from the bustling cityscapes and the relentless pace of urban life, lies a treasure trove of experiences, challenges, and opportunities that often go unnoticed and unaddressed. This book, *Rural Health – Investment, Research and Implications*, is an exploration into the heart of rural communities and the intricate web of factors that shape the health and well-being of their inhabitants.

Rural areas, with their expansive landscapes and close-knit communities, offer a unique lens through which we can examine the broader landscape of health care, research, and the socioeconomic implications that flow from it. The purpose of this book is not merely to spotlight the healthcare disparities that exist between rural and urban populations but to delve deep into the core issues that perpetuate these

Our journey begins with a recognition of the undeniable truth that rural health is an integral part of the larger global health landscape. It is a cornerstone upon which the health of nations is built and yet it often struggles in the shadows of its urban counterpart. Rural areas are home to a diverse array of cultures, lifestyles, and economies, each with its own set of health challenges and solutions waiting to be

As we embark on this exploration, we are guided by three pillars: investment, research, and implications. Investment is the bedrock upon which any meaningful change in rural health must be built. Without the necessary resources, infrastructure, and financial support, the health disparities that persist in rural communities will continue to widen. But investment alone is not enough; it must be informed by rigorous research. The chapters within this book weave together the latest findings, innovative methodologies, and insightful analyses to shed light on the intricacies of rural health. Finally, we delve into the implications of our discoveries, examining the ways in which they can shape policies, healthcare practices, and the lives of

This book is the culmination of the collective efforts of researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community members who are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of rural populations. It serves as both a testament to the progress that has been made and a call to action for the work that lies ahead. It is a reminder that rural health is not a peripheral concern but a central pillar of our

In the pages that follow, you will find a rich tapestry of insights, stories, and perspectives that paint a vivid picture of rural health in all its complexity. We hope that this book will not only inform but inspire action—a renewed commitment to investing in rural health, conducting groundbreaking research, and recognizing the profound

disparities and to offer a roadmap for meaningful change.

discovered.

those residing in rural areas.

society's overall well-being.
