The experts will tell you the three things that keep small towns alive are its school, its church, and its healthcare provider. This latter item, whether it be a doctor, a clinic, or a hospital is so vital the federal government has developed a program to keep rural hospitals alive. Minnesota Public Radio's Bob Reha visited Mahnomen recently where residents believe the designation of their hospital as a Critical access facility is a vital step in keeping the community healthy, both physically and economically.