FORT DAVIS, Texas, Aug. 23, 2024 — A new initiative by the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, aims to eliminate health disparities in rural west Texas by creating “health hubs” in small-town libraries.

With help funding from the Midland-based FMH Foundation, the Association is providing the necessary technology and building out soundproof rooms where residents can conduct telehealth appointments. Each room will be outfitted with a Bluetooth-capable self-monitoring blood pressure device and Bluetooth-capable weight scales. The program was started at the Jeff Davis County Library in Fort Davis and will be expanded to the Reeves County Library in Pecos and the Sundown Library in Hockley County.

Ribbon cuttings for the health hubs will take place at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4 at the Reeves County Library and at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5 at the Sundown Library.

People who live in rural communities experience an average of three years less than their urban counterparts, and they face a 40% higher likelihood of developing heart disease compared to those in small metropolitan and urban areas. Factors such as geographic isolation, limited access to healthcare specialists, and socioeconomic status contribute to these disparities. Additionally, rural communities grapple with critical shortages of healthcare professionals, exacerbating the situation.

Libraries serve as an integral part of the community and are essential to the patrons they serve, particularly within rural communities where services are limited.

“Rural libraries are the heartbeat of the community, providing patrons with connections to resources, learning opportunities and specialty programs that links people together,” said Eva Olivas, community impact director for the American Heart Association. “That’s why libraries are the perfect collaborator to offer this new service to their community members.”

In addition, CPR training kits and table-top blood pressure monitoring systems will be available outside the health hub rooms and available to all library patrons.

“These tabletop monitors are a smaller version of the machine like you’d see at a pharmacy such as Walgreens or Walmart,” Olivas said. Blood pressure monitoring cuffs will be available to check out just as you would a library book.

Regular blood pressure checks, whether by a provider or through self-monitoring, is critically important because hypertension, or high blood pressure, often has no signs or symptoms, and it can lead to stroke, heart attack and other serious health issues.

Hypertension is highly prevalent in Reeves, Hockley and Fort Davis counties with rates of 32.9%, 33.3%, 30.9%, respectively.

“In the last 3 years the nation has seen a 400% increase in telehealth providing and filling gaps in households and communities that lack access,” Olivas added. “Still our rural communities are suffering,” she said. "Through this program patients will have the ability to have virtual visits with their healthcare providers, and receive referrals for more critical issues when needed.”

For 100 years, the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves are fueled by our mission to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives. They have helped transform our nation’s health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. But these gains have not been shared equitably. Black, Hispanic, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Asian American, Pacific Islander and LGBTQ+ people have suffered and died disproportionately. So have people in historically underrepresented communities all over the country. With Bold Hearts™ and powered by science, we pledge to work relentlessly to eliminate heart disease and stroke, optimize brain health and ensure equitable health in every community.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.orgFacebookX or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org