November 21, 2025 3:40 a.m. 

Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman, Tom Kress and Chris Boice issued a proclamation at their weekly business meeting on Wednesday, for National Rural Health Day, which is celebrated every year on the third Thursday of November.

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The proclamation was presented by Commissioner Chris Boice acknowledging that, “In Douglas County we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of rural Douglas County citizens, and we want to celebrate our rural health care providers who work tirelessly to meet their needs”.

A county release said the day aims to recognize awareness of issues like healthcare access, provider shortages, and health disparities in rural areas, while also promoting the resilience and spirit of rural America.

Commissioner Tim Freeman presented proclamation certificates to various organizations in the community that promote healthy living and provide health care services to rural communities locally. Organizations with leadership in attendance included Douglas Public Health Network, Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, North Douglas County Fire & EMS, Adapt Integrated Health Care, Lower Umpqua Hospital District, CHI Mercy Medical Center and several others.

A copy of the live video presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment