“If Dreams Were Lightning: Rural Healthcare Crisis,” a film covering the rapid closure of hospitals in Appalachia, was screened at Nashville’s Belcourt Theatre on March 7. 

Rural hospitals around America are closing at alarming rates, leaving communities without care. In this short documentary, Oscar- and Emmy-nominated director Ramin Bahrani visits Appalachia, where many communities are left with limited or no access to health care. Shortlisted for an Academy Award, the documentary premiered on PBS’s Independent Lens earlier in the spring.

The film explores the rural health care crisis in the South through the eyes of those struggling in it and the dedicated doctors trying to reach them. 

A Q&A panel discussion with film participants, including Dr. Teresa Owens Tyson, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, FAANP, Health Wagon President and CEO, and Dr. Paula Hill-Collins, DNP, FNP-BC, FAANP, Health Wagon Clinical Director, followed the presentation.

The event was presented by the Hello in There Foundation, an initiative established by the family of John Prine to celebrate his legacy and commitment to community care.

All proceeds from the event benefitted the Health Wagon.