There is a distinct need for a flexible ambulatory care workforce that possesses core clinical and practice management competencies, but is also nimble in its ability to adapt to new innovations. This requires programs that can facilitate continuous learning of new skill sets needed to keep pace with emerging federal and state policies that are shaping healthcare and the health care workforce of the future.

This research brief assesses the role practice facilitators have played in helping rural practices adopt health information technology (HIT) systems such as electronic medical records (EMR).