Primary Care (PCO) & Rural Health Development

The PCO works to improve access to health care services for underserved and rural populations who experience barriers to primary care due to geographic isolation, lack of health insurance, and/or language or cultural differences.  The PCO supports and enhances health workforce development and health systems programming to optimize effectiveness, eliminate health disparities and improve health outcomes in Oklahoma.

Primary care is the provision of integrated, accessible health care services by clinicians who are accountable for addressing a large majority of personal health care needs, developing a sustained partnership with patients, and practicing in the context of family and community. (IOM 1996).

The PCO works to improve access to health care services for underserved and rural populations who experience barriers to primary care due to geographic isolation, lack of health insurance, and/or language or cultural differences.

• Primary care access analysis and intervention planning
• Shortage area designation submission
• Project development and grant application assistance
• National Health Service Corps site development and primary care provider recruitment and retention assistance
• Assistance in student recruitment into primary care service-oriented careers
• Sponsorship of J-1 Visa Waiver Physicians
• Consultation and technical assistance in health care reform and public health redesign

Jana Castleberry
Director, Office of Primary Care & Rural Health Development
(405) 426-8624
JanaC@health.ok.gov

Justin Hamrick, MPH, CHES
PCO Coordinator / Health Workforce Data Specialist
(405) 426-8328
JustinH@health.ok.gov