By Dr. Jennifer Bean
On September 9 and 10, MOST Health and Mental Health fellow, Dr. Jennifer Bean, attended the Missouri Rural Health Association's (MHRA) 2026 Annual Conference at Lake Ozark. The meeting brought together healthcare providers, public health professionals, and community organizers from across Missouri to discuss challenges and opportunities facing the state’s health systems. It provided an opportunity for Dr. Bean to share her work and to connect with experts in rural healthcare.
Attendees explored topics including chronic disease management, the shortage of healthcare workers, healthcare innovation, and state health policy. Several sessions discussed the importance of collaborative approaches to improving access to care and health outcomes in rural communities.
A recurring theme across presentations was the importance of connecting organizations, expertise, and resources to address complex health challenges. Sessions on collaborative care models, resilience in the workplace, and community resource networks showed how partnerships can improve care delivery and support both patients and providers.
The conference ended with a review of the Transformation of Rural Community Health (ToRCH) program, a statewide initiative to strengthen healthcare systems through regional partnerships, workforce development, care coordination, and shared infrastructure. This emphasizes collaboration among healthcare providers, public health agencies, behavioral health organizations, emergency services, and community partners to improve health outcomes and create more sustainable care systems.
Dr. Bean most enjoyed the discussions that related data to policy development and community involvement and those that showed cross-sector collaboration. Many sessions highlighted how effective policy development depends on evidence and strong relationships among organizations working toward common goals.
The conference provided many opportunities to learn from leaders across healthcare and public health. Attendees created connections with organizations that improve the health of Missourians.