In August, I attended the Ohio Rural Health Association’s conference in Wooster to better understand the health challenges and opportunities rural communities face every day. This work matters deeply to Trailhead because three of the five counties we serve are rural.
Keynote speakers discussed the current health policy environment and how Medicaid changes will affect patients and providers. Attendees were encouraged to stay connected with state and local Job and Family Services leaders so they can receive accurate eligibility updates and identify resources that help patients and providers navigate the changes.
Ohio’s Rural Health Transformation Program was another important focus of the conference. Created by federal legislation in July 2025, the program provides funding to help states address rural health needs. In Ohio, the Department of Health administers the program, which focuses on expanding access to care, strengthening the rural health workforce, modernizing facilities and technology, and supporting innovative models that bring high-quality, dependable care closer to home. I encourage nonprofit healthcare organizations to monitor the state’s website for rural health grant opportunities: Rural Health Transformation Program Solicitation Invitations | Ohio Department of Health
Several sessions focused on attracting and retaining workers in rural settings. Speakers emphasized workplace culture, flexible work arrangements, and professional growth opportunities as practical ways to keep employees engaged, satisfied, and productive in advancing an organization’s mission.
Business consultants also helped rural organizations understand healthcare reimbursement changes, financial trends, and practical ways to improve operations, strengthen financial processes, and enhance customer service.
Other sessions addressed gaps in pediatric, maternity, and behavioral care in rural communities. Speakers underscored that public, private, and community partnerships are essential to helping families access the care and services they need to stay well.
Mobile care and telehealth strategies were also highlighted as promising ways to help rural communities access primary and specialty services. The discussion raised an important long-term question: how can public policy help sustain these strategies so they remain reliable options for the people who need them most?
During the conference, I enjoyed meeting Rosanna Scott, Executive Director of the Ohio Rural Health Association. I appreciated learning more about the association’s work and left encouraged by the commitment of leaders across the state who are working to strengthen rural health.
I also appreciated connecting with students who shared poster summaries with conference participants. Rose Youngblood of Ohio Northern University described her work partnering with Hardin County public health leadership to create a wellness website for the community. Jacob Weaver of Wright State summarized his research project, which focused on how a focused three-day statewide retreat could better introduce rural healthcare career opportunities to medical students.
The conference also included a series of vendor stations. One vendor, Angel Flight East, shared information about the free flights it provides for patients who need to travel far from home for medical care. Volunteer pilots donate their time, aircraft, and fuel to help patients access specialty care that may not be available close to home.
Another vendor showcased healthcare services and gave away Ohio State University Brutus stress balls. As a Michigan graduate, I took the high road, picked up a few, and shared them with a Trailhead staff member and trustee who are proud OSU grads.
with the OSU stress balls Tracy picked up from a vendor table at the Ohio Rural Healthcare conference.
The conference reminded me that rural health is not only a healthcare issue; it is an economic development issue, a workforce issue, and a quality-of-life issue. For Trailhead’s donors, partners, and business leaders, the message is clear: when we invest in stronger systems of care, we help rural communities remain healthy, resilient, and full of possibility.
– Tracy L. Carter, President and CEO