Alaska Models and Innovations

These stories feature model programs and successful rural projects that can serve as a source of ideas. Some of the projects or programs may no longer be active. Read about the criteria and evidence-base for programs included.

Other Project Examples

Targeted Rural Underserved Track (TRUST) Program

Updated/reviewed March 2024

• Need: There is a shortage of rural physicians in the Northwestern United States.
• Intervention: University of Washington medical students are receiving training through the TRUST program in rural, underserved communities across a five-state radius.
• Results: Long-lasting connections have been formed among regional and underserved communities, medical students, and rural health professionals, with the goal of producing more rural physicians.

Cold Water Safety Children and Youth Educator Program

Updated/reviewed December 2023

• Need: Drowning was a leading cause of death for children in Alaska.
• Intervention: Cold Water Safety and Survival for Educators workshops were developed in 1998, with help from a 4-year federal grant, to train educators to provide education and hands-on skills for school children and members of the public.
• Results: The safety program was integrated into about 50% of Alaskan school curriculum and schools in other states, helping to train hundreds of educators and thousands of children on the importance of cold water safety.

Portable Alternative Sanitation System (PASS)

Updated/reviewed December 2023

• Need: To bring low-cost water and sanitation improvements to homes in Alaska Native villages without access to piped water or sewer systems.
• Intervention: The Portable Alternative Sanitation System (PASS) treats hauled water, provides for handwashing with clean water, and disposes waste without traditional piping.
• Results: Residents in the pilot project reported that PASS was cleaner and healthier than the self-haul method.

EMS Live@Nite

Updated/reviewed September 2023

• Need: Distance, time, and cost make it difficult for EMS volunteers to attend continuing education and maintain certification.
• Intervention: Providence Health Training delivers free online training to rural EMS providers via video teleconferencing.
• Results: The EMS Live@Nite program provides free, monthly training to rural EMS providers in the northwestern part of the United States. The program is available through live video conferencing from certified locations in rural communities.

Family Wellness Warriors Initiative

Updated/reviewed November 2020

• Need: Decrease rates of domestic violence, child sexual abuse, and child neglect for Alaska Native people in remote villages.
• Intervention: An evidence-based model inclusive of traditional culture trains local communities on methods of prevention and treatment for domestic and interpersonal violence.
• Results: Self-sustaining local system with improved family and spiritual well-being and decreased healthcare access needs.