We are pleased to present volume I of the 2000–2002 State Health Plan. As most of you are aware, this plan is the product of input and feedback from many individuals and groups within the state, as well as individuals on the national level.
State Health Plan (Plan) development began with a survey in September 1998 and concluded with the Governor's approval on January 5, 2000. The activities leading up to the development of the document included:
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The Issue Selection Group (now known as the State Health Plan Advisory Group) convened in March 1999 to assist in identifying and selecting issues for inclusion in the Plan. Using the survey results as a basis for discussion, the group selected six issues from the survey and identified three additional areas to be developed for the Plan.
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The HCA staff, along with contracted authors, put together a draft Plan for review by the HCA, the State Health Plan Advisory Group, the health care community, and the public.
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A six-week public comment period was held in the fall, during which time an interactive satellite teleconference and Summit were held. Downlink sites for the teleconference included Beckley, Bluefield, Charleston, Huntington, Martinsburg, Morgantown, Parkersburg and Wheeling. Additionally, the HCA held a Summit, in which the participants ensured that the Plan reflects the issues, concerns and values of the State's residents and health care system.
We believe you will find the Plan informative and useful as it provides data and information on West Virginia's demographics, the health status of West Virginians, health care delivery and financing, health care issues and targeted policies. Plan implementation is described in the State Health Plan Annual Report. The State Health Plan will 
continue until a new plan is completed by the WV Indicators Project.
If you have any questions or comments about the State Health Plan please feel free to contact the Planning and Policy Development Division at 1-888-558-7002. Thank you for your interest in improving the health and health care of the citizens of West Virginia.