Utah 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.

Effective Examples

New Mexico Mobile Screening Program for Miners

Updated/reviewed December 2022

• Need: To increase access to medical screening for miners in New Mexico.
• Intervention: A mobile screening clinic with telemedicine capability screens miners for respiratory and other conditions.
• Results: In a survey, 92% of miners reported their care as very good, while the other 8% reported it as good. The program has expanded to three other states.

Other Project Examples

Hope Squad

Updated/reviewed June 2024

• Need: To reduce youth suicide rates.
• Intervention: First begun in Utah, Hope Squad is a nationwide program that trains youth to look after their classmates and refer those with suicidal thoughts or other mental health concerns to adult advisors.
• Results: Studies suggest that Hope Squad schools' students with suicidal thoughts are more likely than non-Hope Squad schools' students to solicit help. In addition, stigma surrounding mental illness is decreasing.

Utah Rural Independent Hospital Network (Rural 9 Network)

Updated/reviewed April 2023

• Need: To help ensure the viability of and improve quality at 9 rural, independent hospitals serving 11 Utah counties.
• Intervention: A network organization was created to allow member hospitals to communicate, network, and undertake projects together.
• Results: Members take advantage of cost savings, education, and networking opportunities through group projects and programs.

Canyon Creek Services

Updated/reviewed March 2023

• Need: To reduce and prevent domestic violence and sexual assault in Utah's rural Beaver, Garfield, and Iron counties.
• Intervention: Canyon Creek Services provides a 24/7 emergency hotline, emergency shelter, hospital response, crisis intervention, housing advocacy, and community education services.
• Results: In 2022, CCS served 756 survivors, with 141 of them accessing the emergency shelter. CCS reached 159,275 people through community outreach and prevention campaigns.