Jacqueline Osterhaus, Certified Physician Assistant for Paynesville Area Health Care System, has been appointed to serve on the State of Minnesota’s Rural Health Advisory Committee as a mid-level practitioner. Her appointment was effective on April 25, 2012 and she will serve a four year term of office according to the press release issued by Governor Mark Dayton.

The Rural Health Advisory Committee, created during the 1992 Legislative session, serves as a statewide forum for rural health concerns and features a diverse membership on the 15 member committee. Serving on the board are health care consumers, health care professionals, educators and members of legislation. This advisory panel focuses on the unique challenges and needs found in rural healthcare and acts to:
Advise the commissioner of health and other state agencies on rural health issues Provide a systematic and cohesive approach toward rural health issues and planning Encourage cooperation among rural communities and among providers. Osterhaus, who lives in Paynesville, MN, is the primary provider for a small community in central Minnesota and understands not only the challenges, but the many rewards of a rural medical practice. “I am looking forward to the experience and hope to bring good things to the table. I thank the committee for this exciting opportunity.”