President Daniel J. Elsener | Marian University website

CareSource's president, Steve Smitherman, expressed, “CareSource's partnership with Marian University marks a pivotal step in addressing rural health care challenges in Indiana. As a nonprofit managed care entity, we are committed to improving access to health care for all Hoosiers and proud to invest in the future of rural medicine. We look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will have on communities across the state.”

Dean of the Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Amanda Wright, DO., shared, “This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to addressing the critical health care needs in Indiana's rural communities. The generous $250,000 gift will not only provide financial support to deserving osteopathic medical students but also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of rural medicine. This scholarship will empower and inspire our students to become dedicated health care professionals, serving in areas where the need is greatest.”

Cara Veale, CEO of the Indiana Rural Health Association (IRHA), also commented on the partnership, stating, “We at the Indiana Rural Health Association (IRHA) are excited to see this new partnership develop. Collaboration that supports the enhancement of rural health care delivery is always a wonderful thing. Physicians eager to work in rural communities are critical to the health care infrastructure and we are so pleased to see the support from CareSource Indiana and Marian University.”

The initiative includes a $250,000 gift from CareSource to establish the CareSource Rural Health Endowed Scholarship at Marian University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine. The scholarship is aimed at addressing the shortage of primary health care providers in Indiana's rural areas, where residents face challenges such as inadequate insurance coverage, difficulty finding available doctors, and long distances to access healthcare services. The first scholarship will be awarded in the fall of 2024.

This partnership between Marian University and CareSource Indiana is set to make a significant impact on rural health care in Indiana, with the CareSource Rural Health Endowed Scholarship exclusively supporting medical students pursuing careers in rural Indiana towns.