Over 100 leaders, researchers and stakeholders from Montana and the Pacific Northwest recently convened to hear about a new rural health research collaborative from Providence and the University of Montana.
On November 19, 2025, more than 100 local leaders, researchers, caregivers and funders gathered in Missoula, Montana, for the official launch of RESOLVE, a pioneering rural health collaborative.
The event marked the public rollout of this first-of-its-kind partnership between Providence, Providence St. Patrick Hospital, and the University of Montana (UM). The collaborative aims to develop research-driven strategies and tailored care models that improve access and outcomes in rural and Indigenous health care.
A pioneering partnership for rural healthcare
At the event and in interviews with news media, leaders from Providence and UM shared their vision for a game-changing initiative that brings together clinical expertise, research infrastructure, and deep partnership with rural communities, researchers, and caregivers.
“Coming back to Montana was about making a meaningful impact in the place I call home," explained Daniel Spoon, M.D., Providence Montana Chief Medical Officer and Director of Cardiovascular Research. "RESOLVE is the culmination of that vision—an engine to connect clinical practice with research in a way that’s immediate, locally driven, and deeply relevant,” he added.
“RESOLVE is not just a research initiative; it’s a new model for rural health innovation," said Matt Fete, PhD, Dean of the College of Health at the University of Montana. "We are committed to research that seeks to support the needs of communities by creating partnerships in place. Collaborating with Providence allows us to scale ideas into meaningful change across the region.”
A funding opportunity for Providence & UM researchers
At the event, the partners also announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for UM and Providence researchers designed to jump-start collaborative research across the two institutions. RESOLVE is now accepting joint applications from Providence and UM investigators that address at least one of the collaborative’s core objectives:
- Improving health outcomes for identified rural populations
- Advancing care practices and clinical protocols with rural health partners
- Strengthening telehealth and remote-care access for rural communities and providers
- Supporting vulnerable communities through advocacy and investment in rural-centered policies
RESOLVE in the news!
The launch drew significant media attention from news outlets across Montana and beyond. Check out the stories at the links below!
Donor support amplifies RESOLVE's impact
This collaboration wouldn't be possible without the generosity of our donors and community partners who have already made financial contributions. We are deeply grateful for their support!
To contribute to this exciting rural health initiative, please visit Donation - Montana - Providence and select "RESOLVE" from the dropdown menu.
For more information:
- Visit the Providence Institute for Clinical Innovation website
- Support RESOLVE with a donation via the Providence Montana Health Foundation
- View the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Providence and UM researchers
- Read the press release at Providence.org
