More than 1,100 rural healthcare practitioners and leaders recently gathered in Orlando for the 37th Rural Health Care Leadership Conference hosted by AHA. The event brought together rural hospital CEOs, senior executives, clinical leaders, and trustees to discuss strategies, insights, and resources unique to the rural health system.
During the conference, participants discussed important topics such as workforce innovations, sustainability solutions, and reimbursement shortfalls. Many of the sessions featured rural hospitals and communities dealing with similar challenges such as workforce, housing, readmissions, financial sustainability, and workplace violence. Michella Sybesma, SDAHO’s VP of Education and Communication, attended the conference and shared that “Rural healthcare is the heart of South Dakota, and it’s essential for us to stay up to date on best practices in the industry. This conference showcased many innovative solutions happening across the country but also in our state, including representation from our very own South Dakota hospital members, sharing on topics such as virtual nursing, housing growth, and health equity.”
In addition, AHA presented its rural advocacy agenda which focuses on the following areas to support rural hospitals:
• Commercial Insurer Accountability
• Support Flexible Payment Options
• Ensure Fair and Adequate Reimbursement
• Bolster the Workforce
• Protect the 340B Program
To view the Rural Advocacy Agenda click here.
