The RHIC's Inter-Professional Education initiative is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for teams of future health care professionals, particularly those preparing to practice in rural areas. The initiative will ensure a robust, well-prepared team of health care professionals who will provide enhanced access to quality care in rural communities.

The RHIC is working to explore the disparities and disadvantages facing many rural communities with regard to health status and health care systems. The intent is to create a better understanding of rural health needs and develop solutions that will strengthen the delivery of healthcare in underserved areas.

In order to ensure that the Collaborative has the capacity to attract the investment and talent that the initiative requires to be successful, the RHIC has engaged in an ongoing community redevelopment planning process for the area surrounding the intersection of Locust and Lafayette Streets over the past several years.