The Access Project to Release Research Findings on the Economic Impact of Healthcare Costs on California Farmers

The Access Project, a national research and resource center, has received funding from The California Endowment to study the economic impact of healthcare costs on California small farm and ranch owners and engage respondents in ongoing healthcare reform discussions. As small employers and members of an important political and economic social sector, farmers and ranchers have a unique leadership and represent important partners to rural health care providers. Family farms and ranchers can provide an important voice in ongoing healthcare reform debates in California.
 
In partnership with the USDA NASS Office of California, The Access project has completed the capture of important data from over 2000 California family farms. They are now in the process of analysing the data and disseminate findings in early spring of 2008.

The Access Project looks forward to a potential partnership with the California State Rural Health Association to ensure that the study findings are used effectively in community level discussions. As we proceed we will provide more details on how that community engagement will be shaped.

Article posted on 1/17/08