Table 1 Three rural hospitals selected for the culturally based tele-consult intervention

Alabama (AL)

Russell Medical Center

Located in Alexander City, AL, 80 bed, not-for-profit, acute care facility serving the needs of east central Alabama. Approximately, 24,827 patients visited the hospital’s emergency room. There are 67 physicians affiliated with the hospital, and the hospital had a total of 3245 admissions. Its physicians performed 835 inpatient and 3264 outpatient surgeries. Russell Medical Center also supports community health education services through health screenings, support groups, childbirth classes, self-help programs, and athletic trainers to multiple sports teams in its service area.

Mississippi (MS)

Highland Community Hospital

Located in Picayune MS, a 60-bed not-for-profit hospital and affiliated clinics provide access to a broad range of quality services, supporting the community and enhancing the level of care for the residents of Picayune and the surrounding areas. There are 100 physicians affiliated with the Highland Community Hospital. Its community outreach includes classes and events in different themes including community education, continuing education, screenings, and support groups.

South Carolina

Aiken Regional Medical Center

Located in Aiken, SC, a 245-bed acute care facility offering a comprehensive range of specialties and services. The medical staff includes over 900 skilled healthcare/support professionals, a medical staff of more than 120 multi-specialty physicians, and a team of 230 volunteers. The center provides nearly 50 specialty services through its acute care facility, behavioral healthcare hospital, and the Cancer Care Institutes of Carolina. Services are provided to residents of Aiken and its surrounding communities. Community outreach in Aiken Regional Medical Center includes classes, seminars, support groups, and information about new services.