Rural hospitals across Florida face unique challenges in delivering care to the communities they serve – from financial constraints and workforce shortages to infrastructure. FHA is working with hospitals across the state to understand more about these challenges and how data, technology, research and various best practices can improve access to care in rural Florida communities. The Rural Health Transformation Program is an opportunity to bolster health care in the state's rural areas and hospitals are having thoughtful discussions on leveraging funding opportunities to continue providing high-quality health care for patients and their families. FHA's Mary Mayhew and Brea Gelin last week joined David Walker, CEO of Weems Memorial Hospital, Emily Brown, CEO of Calhoun Liberty Hospital, Dr. Laban Bontrager, Calhoun Liberty Hospital Board member, Brooke Donaldson, CEO of Jackson Hospital Marianna, and Lauren Faison-Clark, CEO of Doctors' Memorial Hospital, who are working on a regional approach to care. (fb)

A strong health care workforce is essential to deliver high-quality care across Florida communities in the years to come. Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs, like those at Lakeland Regional Health, help train and inspire the next generation of physicians. FHA President & CEO Mary Mayhew joined Danielle Drummond, FHA Board Chair-Elect/Vice Chair and CEO of Lakeland Regional Health, and Dr. Nancy Finnigan, Nephrologist and Graduate Medical Education lead for Lakeland Regional Health, on Tuesday to learn more about the program’s successes in preparing tomorrow’s physicians. (fb)