Local Elevate Program Recognized in Minnesota Rural Health Awards

The Minnesota Department of Health released the 2025 Rural Health Award winners on November 17, 2025, naming four individual recipients and two organizational or team winners. Among the honorees, Elevate, a division of Perham Health, was singled out as a co recipient of the Minnesota Rural Health Team Award for its work redefining aging well in rural Minnesota. State officials noted that Elevate brings health care and community resources together to help older adults live with purpose and health.

For Otter Tail County the award is both an honor and a practical signal. Perham Health has long been a local anchor for medical services, and Elevate’s emphasis on integrating clinical care with community supports addresses common gaps in rural health. Older residents who face isolation, transportation barriers, and limited access to specialty services stand to benefit when health systems coordinate resources across sectors. Family caregivers and community organizations may also see reduced strain if preventive programs and social supports expand.

The state press release described the broader slate of winners and highlighted contributions across rural Minnesota. Four individual award recipients were recognized for leadership and innovation, while two organizational or team awards honored collaborative models that strengthen rural health infrastructure. The full state release provides longer descriptions and a complete list of winners online.

Public health implications are significant. Rural areas are experiencing aging populations, rising chronic disease needs, and a constrained health care workforce. Programs that blend health care delivery with community resources can improve preventive care, support chronic condition management, and reduce avoidable hospital use. They can also address social determinants of health by connecting older adults with housing supports, transportation, nutrition services, and opportunities for social engagement.

From a policy perspective, the recognition underscores the importance of sustained investment in rural workforce development, cross sector partnerships, and flexible funding that allows local innovation to scale. For Otter Tail County leaders the award is a reminder that policy choices at the county and state level influence whether promising models like Elevate can expand, sustain staff, and reach more residents.

Residents who want more information can review the Minnesota Department of Health announcement for the full list of winners and program descriptions, and contact Perham Health for details about Elevate services in our community. The award draws attention to practical work underway here to help older adults live with health and purpose, and it highlights the continuing need to invest in rural health equity.