This article uses a case study–based framework for analyzing acute and long-term care systems' integration efforts in rural areas and their impacts on service capacity. The article examines opportunities for enhancing service capacity, as illustrated by the experiences of rural programs in three states: Arizona, Illinois, and Vermont. Local control, local leadership, the medical/ social paradigm, and policy stimulation are the dimensions used to examine the unique characteristics of rural integration efforts and their influence on rural long-term care service capacity. The article discusses the importance of technical support, professional collaboration, financing flexibility, and attention to protection of rural safety-net services in developing rural long-term care infrastructures.
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