Policy planners can create improved systems of care and new support systems for rural families who are raising children with disabling conditions or special health care needs, by recognizing the unique needs of these families, the ecology of local service delivery systems, and the special resource requirements of rural areas. Lack of information is a serious impediment to attaining the goal of providing family-centered, community-based, coordinated care in rural areas. Other factors to consider in planning services include: health status profiles differ from those of urban communities; rural communities have different concerns, needs, and resources; demands on professionals may be overwhelming; significant economic problems exist; there is a lack of adequate transportation; access to services is restricted; and the lack of population density results in a paucity of health care services. Implications for policy and planning include: (1) localizing service planning and delivery; (2) increasing and enhancing the family role in child care; (3) developing interagency networks; and (4) coordinating cross-government private resources. (Contains 13 references.) (JDD)