MSU News Service

BOZEMAN – An interactive web site designed to share ideas and expertise about health has been launched to help prevent disease and promote wellness across Montana.

The website, www.montanaruralhealthinitiative.org, includes stories about local health, wellness and prevention initiatives, a calendar of events, a database of leaders and other resources.

The Montana Rural Health Initiative, a collaborative group managed by the Montana Office of Rural Health/Area Health Education Center at Montana State University, is in charge of the site.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana Foundation for Healthy Montanans is investing $100,000 to support the program’s efforts, according to officials with the Montana Rural Health Initiative.

“People and families struggling with obesity, diabetes and other disease need access to the highest quality sources of information, regardless of where they live,” said Mark Burzynski, executive director of the foundation. A private organization committed to encouraging healthy lifestyles and improving Montanans’ health, the foundation supports community and state-based initiatives that address high-priority needs.

Officials with the Montana Rural Health Initiative say they are committed to engaging multiple partners and creating a dynamic network that links community-based health, wellness and prevention initiatives throughout the state, according to a news release.