ARKANSAS RURAL HEALTH PARTNERSHIP

Every milestone on this timeline represents more than just a moment in time—it represents people, progress, and purpose. From our early beginnings to the impactful work happening today, each step has been driven by a commitment to improving access to care and strengthening communities across rural Arkansas. Along the way, we’ve built meaningful partnerships, expanded programs, and continued to adapt to the evolving needs of those we serve. While we’re proud of how far we’ve come, we know the journey doesn’t stop here. The future of rural health depends on continued collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for healthier communities. And we’re just getting started. 📲 arruralhealth.org

It takes a community. Joey Flowers, Chief Strategy Officer for ARcare, shares that improving rural health goes far beyond healthcare alone. From schools and local leaders to civic organizations and community members, everyone has a role to play in helping communities grow and thrive. Through programs and partnerships, Arkansas Rural Health Partnership is working to address real needs. You don’t have to work in healthcare to make a difference. You just have to be willing to get involved. Learn more about how you can be part of the impact: 📲 arruralhealth.org

Public health is what keeps our communities strong, often in ways we don’t always see. From preventive care and education to emergency response and access to services, public health plays a vital role in the well-being of rural Arkansas every single day. This week, we’re celebrating the people, programs, and partnerships working behind the scenes to build healthier communities for all. 📲 arruralhealth.org

From a small network to a statewide impact. Lynn Hawkins, Chief Membership & Engagement Officer, shares the growth story of Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, from its start in 2007 with just five rural hospitals to the strong, collaborative network it is today. ARHP continues to bring organizations together with one shared goal: improving health in rural Arkansas. Because real change happens when we work together. 📲 arruralhealth.org

Health equity starts with access, understanding, and community. During Minority Health Month, we’re recognizing the importance of ensuring every Arkansan, no matter their background or ZIP code, has access to quality, compassionate care. In rural communities, that means breaking down barriers, expanding resources, and meeting people where they are. Because better health outcomes begin when everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 📲 arruralhealth.org

Today we celebrate the physicians who make rural healthcare possible. At the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, we honor the dedication, expertise, and compassion of doctors across Arkansas. The clinicians who care for our communities, train the next generation, and ensure patients in every corner of the state have access to quality care. Thank you for all that you do. 📲 arruralhealth.org

Collaboration is the backbone of rural healthcare. Kevin Storey, longtime board member of the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, explains how small hospitals working together across the state help identify gaps, strengthen services, and ensure quality care reaches every community in Arkansas. When rural hospitals unite, patients benefit. 📲 arruralhealth.org

Stronger together starts with one table. At the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, the goal has always been simple: bring every sector of healthcare together to learn, collaborate, and move forward as one. As Mellie shared, when we gather, share ideas, and turn conversation into action, we create real momentum for rural communities across Arkansas. 📲 arruralhealth.org

For more than 20 years, Mellie Boagni has witnessed both the challenges and the resilience of healthcare in Arkansas. providers stretched thin, communities fighting to maintain access, and leaders stepping up to innovate and adapt. In the March/April issue of Health Care Journal of Arkansas, she shares why this moment matters. The challenges we face are no longer isolated, they’re shared, complex, and require a new approach. One rooted in collaboration over competition and regional solutions over silos. Real transformation happens when healthcare leaders come together to plan, invest, and build systems that serve entire communities. Arkansas has the people and the potential. Now is the time to act together. Read more here 📲 https://bit.ly/4rS4bOu

Partnership makes rural healthcare stronger. We’re grateful for leaders like Pearl McElfish of the UAMS Institute for Community Health Innovation and for the collaboration that advances workforce training and community-based care across Arkansas. At the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, supporting rural hospitals and the families who rely on them is at the heart of everything we do. 📲 https://bit.ly/4d1Crmu

Rural hospitals face real challenges…but they don’t face them alone. Leslie Huitt, CEO and CFO of Bradley County Medical Center, shared the realities of serving a declining population, managing rising costs, and recruiting both clinical and business office staff in rural Arkansas. That’s why connection matters. Through the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, leaders come together to share strategies, strengthen programs, and learn from one another, because when one rural hospital succeeds, we all move forward. 📲 arruralhealth.org

Strong partnerships are essential to the future of rural healthcare. As Brock Slabach, Chief Operating Officer for the Rural Health Association of Arkansas, shares that collaboration between communities, regional partners, and the state will help drive meaningful investments through the Rural Health Transformation Program 📲 arruralhealth.org

My amazing and favorite side-kick ❤️

🎉 Big congratulations to Lynn Hawkins! Lynn Hawkins, Chief Membership & Engagement Officer at Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, has been named to the 2026 AMP C-Suite List by Arkansas Money & Politics. This recognition highlights influential leaders across Arkansas who are making a meaningful impact in their organizations and communities. For more than two decades, Lynn has helped strengthen rural health collaboration across the state, building the relationships and connections that support ARHP’s mission and the communities it serves. We’re proud to see her leadership recognized. Congratulations, Lynn! 📲 https://lnkd.in/grc-BjD6

When rural organizations align, real progress happens. Thank you to ARcare and leaders like Joey Flowers for highlighting the power of long-standing partnerships with the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership. From building workforce pipelines to convening state and federal leaders at the table, collaboration has always been at the center of our mission. Together, we’re turning shared vision into measurable impact for Arkansas communities. 📲 arruralhealth.org

The momentum at this year’s Summit says it all. From policy leaders to rural providers, the Rural Health Association of Arkansas Annual Summit showcased the collaboration, innovation, and advocacy shaping the future of rural healthcare in our state. At the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, we believe the time to engage is now. If you’re committed to strengthening rural hospitals and expanding access to care, the time to become a member is now. Join us. Be part of the voice advancing rural health across Arkansas. 📲https://bit.ly/4d1Crmu

Today we celebrate the women who lead, serve, and strengthen rural healthcare across Arkansas. At the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, we are proud to work alongside dedicated women whose leadership, expertise, and commitment help ensure rural hospitals and communities continue to thrive. 📲 https://bit.ly/4aQVr5T

Moving from opportunity to action. At the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, our focus is clear: make sure rural providers have the information, guidance, and support they need as new funding opportunities take shape across the state. As our founder Mellie Boagni shared, the structure is being built, the plan is in place, and now it’s about getting the word out so rural communities are ready to move forward. 📲 arruralhealth.org

We are still reflecting on the Rural Health Association of Arkansas’ successful Annual Summit. It was a strong gathering of rural health leaders focused on policy, workforce, innovation, and the future of care in our communities. At the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, we’re grateful for our members and partners who attended and continue to move rural health forward across Arkansas.

What an incredible start to our day at the Rural Health Association of Arkansas Annual Summit. ARHP's founder and executive director Mellie Boagni kicked off an amazing day of gaining insight into the state of rural healthcare. Stay tuned for more from the summit throughout the day. 📲 ARruralhealth.org

The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership is proud to host Mental Health First Aid training with participation from Mainline Health staff. By coming together for this important education, we are strengthening our rural health workforce and equipping teams with the tools to recognize, respond to, and support mental health needs in their communities. 💻 https://bit.ly/3ZRMpze

Arkansas Rural Health Partnership has been named to the Arkansas Money & Politics2026 Companies of Distinction list. From five rural hospitals to one of the nation’s largest rural health networks, ARHP continues to grow through collaboration, workforce development, and innovative programs that strengthen care in rural communities across Arkansas. Check out the article with Arkansas Money & Politics here 📲 https://lnkd.in/gtCP8Mud

Every rural community has different workforce needs—and the Rural Workforce Playbook was built to reflect that. This interactive toolkit offers adaptable tools and strategies communities can use based on their unique challenges and goals. As Senior Program Officer Caleb Cox explains, this is just the beginning. Now we need partners across rural healthcare to contribute and share insights to strengthen the workforce statewide. Visit www.arworkforce.com to learn more.

February is American Heart Month, a reminder that heart health starts with access to care, education, and prevention. Arkansas Rural Health Partnership supports rural communities by strengthening the healthcare workforce, improving access to preventive services, and addressing barriers that impact chronic disease management. By investing in training, community health workers, nutrition support, and patient navigation, ARHP helps ensure rural Arkansans have the resources they need to live longer, healthier lives. 📲ARHP Resource Directory: https://bit.ly/4qWbAfP

The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership is expanding access to education and training through the Arkansas Rural Health Academy, empowering rural residents with credentials and skills needed in healthcare careers—from community health work to EMS and patient care roles. 🟣 Short program length (averaging 10 weeks) 🟣 Reasonable workload (16–20 hours/week) 🟣 Blended learning (in-person, online, and experiential) 🟣 Small class sizes with tutoring available 🟣 Certificate-level programs 🟣 Scholarships and financial assistance available 🟣 Courses can lead to direct employment with local healthcare employers 📲Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gr6vfxjn

The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership is working to strengthen the EMS pipeline, support local agencies, and help ensure rural Arkansans get the urgent care they need when they need it. As Scott Gann shares, there are fewer than 2,500 paramedics statewide, which means fewer providers on calls and ambulances unused due to staffing. Hear how ARHP is becoming the vital link for rural patients to providers. 📲Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gr6vfxjn

Please see this special message from Mellie Boagni, CEO, President, and Founder of Arkansas Rural Health Partnership. Arkansas Rural Health Partnership is intentionally investing in a regional approach to rural healthcare by supporting hospitals, clinics, FQHCs, EMS, and community partners across the state to come together as Regional Health Networks. This work directly aligns with Arkansas’ Rural Health Transformation Plan, which calls for regional collaboration, integrated delivery systems, shared resources, and locally driven solutions to strengthen access to care, improve health outcomes, stabilize the rural healthcare workforce, and ensure long-term financial sustainability. By helping rural healthcare organizations move beyond siloed operations and toward coordinated, regionally aligned systems of care, ARHP is supporting the state’s vision to transform how care is delivered in rural Arkansas by meeting communities where they are while building capacity for the future. Transformation is not a single program or policy. It is sustained, collaborative work. And it happens best when regions lead together.

📣 Calling Arkansas Nurses and Nursing Students Arkansas Rural Health Partnership is proud to support the Arkansas Nurses Association as they prepare for 2026 Nurses Day at the Capitol 🩺🏛️ This important event brings together nurses from all practice areas and nursing students to engage directly with legislators, share frontline perspectives, and advocate for policies that impact nursing practice, patient care, and public health across Arkansas. Representation from rural health nurses is especially important to ensure lawmakers hear the full breadth of nursing expertise across our state 💙 🗓 Tuesday, February 10, 2026 📍 The Hall and Arkansas State Capitol 🔗 Register here https://lnkd.in/g2YUFg9i If you’re not scheduled to work that day, we encourage you to attend and stand with nurses from across Arkansas. Together, we can strengthen the collective voice of nursing and rural healthcare 🤝

In 2016, ARHP member hospitals sounded the alarm with every single one identifying behavioral health as their #1 concern. What followed was a turning point. Over the past 10 years, ARHP has helped build programs that close gaps in mental health screening, expand services, and support substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery across rural Arkansas. The work continues, but rural communities are stronger because we faced the crisis together. 📲 Learn more: arruralhealth.org

ARHP is focused on strengthening our current programs and building new ones where rural communities need support most. "One initiative that is near and dear to us right now is actually OB life support…it is not a class that is offered in the state of Arkansas, we are actually going to bring that in 2026” -Scott Gann, Regional Program Director at ARHP More training. More resources. Stronger rural health care. 📲Learn more here: arruralhealth.org

Did you know the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership brings together 22 hospitals, 3 medical schools, and 2 FQHCs to strengthen healthcare across our state? Together, these partners are building workforce pipelines, expanding access to services, and improving outcomes for rural families. 📲Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g-XQz-aN

For many families in rural Arkansas, distance can make healthcare harder to reach. That’s why ARHP supports programs that strengthen telehealth, expand services, and connect patients to care closer to home whether it’s routine visits, specialty care, or follow-up support. Convenient. Local. Accessible. 📲 Learn more: arruralhealth.org

Congratulations to Caleb Cox on the publication of his article in the Healthcare Journal of Arkansas! 💜 Read it here: https://lnkd.in/gNfupQZF In the article, Caleb highlights his work at the intersection of rural health, food access, and program evaluation—an area where his leadership continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact. Caleb’s journey with the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership began as a graduate student at the Clinton School of Public Service, where his Capstone project focused on developing a best-practice, evidence-based toolkit for food pharmacies. That early work helped shape how food-as-medicine models can be intentionally designed, evaluated, and sustained in rural communities. After graduating, Caleb chose to continue his work with Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, stepping into the role of Project Director for a HRSA planning grant—where his strengths in program design, structure, and long-term planning quickly shined. He later became our Program Evaluation Specialist, bringing a meticulous lens to ensure our initiatives were not only ambitious, but actually demonstrably improving health outcomes for rural Arkansans. Today, Caleb is advancing this work as Project Director of the HRSA Delta States Rural Development Network Program, continuing to lead and expand our food-as-medicine initiatives. Under his leadership, Arkansas Rural Health Partnership is conducting in-hospital food pharmacy feasibility studies across member hospitals, with a strong focus on sustainability and long-term integration into clinical care. Caleb has earned an exceptional level of trust and credibility, now overseeing all federally funded programs and serving as our go-to leader for strategic direction. We are incredibly fortunate to have him on our team and even more excited about what’s ahead!

From EMS and nursing to behavioral health and community education, ARHP is helping build the rural healthcare workforce of tomorrow. Through training opportunities, partnerships, and hands-on programs, ARHP supports providers and students who want to serve right here in Arkansas. Investing in people means stronger communities, now and in the future. 📲 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gnpTnQzv

Today, we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his vision of dignity, opportunity, and hope for every person. In rural Arkansas, that hope includes strong access to quality healthcare. ARHP is grateful to partner with hospitals, clinics, schools, and community leaders who are helping make healthier futures possible for families across our state. Together, we’re building communities where everyone has the chance to thrive. 📲 Learn more: arruralhealth.org

Preventive care saves lives and keeps families healthier longer. Through education, outreach, and partnerships, ARHP helps connect rural residents with screenings, wellness visits, vaccines, and resources that support healthier living today and for the future. 📲 Learn more: arruralhealth.org

In 2023, 45% of Arkansas high schoolers reported feeling sadness or hopelessness, while the state faces a 380:1 provider gap for mental health care, especially in rural areas. Hear from ARHP Senior Service Corps Director, Seth Wyatt on how ARHP is working to help close the gap and connect more students and families with the support they need. 📲Learn more here: arruralhealth.org

The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership started in 2008 when five rural hospitals joined forces to solve shared challenges in southeast Arkansas. Today, ARHP has grown into a statewide network working to expand access to care, strengthen the healthcare workforce, and support mental and behavioral health programs across rural communities. Big impact all starting from a small, grassroots collaboration. 📲Learn more here: arruralhealth.org

“Recovery is possible…it’s really up to us to help each other…rural communities really coming together…” says Amanda Kuttenkuler, ARHP Director of Partnerships & Outreach and one of ARHP’s certified Mental Health First Aid instructors. Across Arkansas, we’re seeing growing support from legislators, judges, nurses, doctors, and community members who want stronger programs and real resources for rural families in regards to mental health. ARHP is helping connect those efforts so more people can get help close to home. Reaching out is strength. No one should have to struggle alone. 📲Learn more here: arruralhealth.org

January is National Blood Donor Month and the need is real here in Arkansas. Winter weather, illness, and holiday schedules often mean fewer donations, while hospitals still depend on blood for surgeries, trauma care, and emergencies. If you’re able, consider donating and helping keep lifesaving blood available for families across rural Arkansas. Together, we can help close the gap. 📲Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gcmCk7Pe

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The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership (ARHP) is proud to announce the appointment of Katie Matthews as Senior Director–Public Service Initiatives. Katie brings a strong background in public service, program development, and cross-sector collaboration—having worked in close partnership with ARHP across statewide initiatives that advance health, nutrition, and community well-being. Her appointment reflects both her proven leadership and ARHP’s continued investment in high-impact, community-driven public service efforts. Katie holds a Master of Public Service from the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service. Her academic training and professional experience uniquely position her to lead ARHP’s public service initiatives at the intersection of rural health, workforce development, nutrition, and community resilience. Most recently, Katie served as an AmeriCorps Program Officer, where she oversaw multiple federally funded programs, supported compliance and monitoring, and helped steward more than $3 million in AmeriCorps investments across the state. Her experience also includes leadership roles across several public service sectors, where she advanced food access, nutrition education, and community wellness initiatives through strong partnerships and data-driven program design. “We are thrilled to officially welcome Katie to the ARHP team,” said Mellie Boagni, Founder & CEO of the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership. “She understands rural systems, values partnership, and brings both strategic insight and on-the-ground experience. Her work aligns seamlessly with our mission to strengthen rural communities through collaboration and public service.” In her new role, Katie will lead and expand ARHP’s public service initiatives—supporting partnerships that enhance rural capacity, leverage service programs, and deliver sustainable solutions for Arkansas communities. Please join us in welcoming Katie Matthews to the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership.

The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership was awarded $509,000 to purchase a state-of-the-art mobile training unit and advanced simulation equipment which will allow expansion of access to EMS training and help to grow the number of EMTs and paramedics serving the Arkansas Delta. “It will be a game changer…” says Scott Gann, Regional Program Director with ARHP. We’re proud to invest in the people who show up when every second matters. 📲 Learn more: arruralhealth.org

Meet Cody Black, a student in the paramedic program at Natural Park College! Learn what it is like to train to become a paramedic and make a difference in Arkansas. 📲Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gnpTnQzv

As we step into 2026, we are committed to continuing to strengthen rural healthcare, expanding access and supporting the communities we serve. Here’s to progress, partnership, and a bright year ahead! 📲arruralhealth.org/

If you are ready for a fresh start, new direction or a more meaningful career, ARHP can help guide you there in 2026! Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking to grow in the healthcare field, our resources and partner programs offer pathways that make a real impact in Arkansas communities. Start your new year with purpose. 📲Learn more: careers.arruralhealth.org

“Arkansas is a critical juncture and in almost my 20 years of service in EMS, I’ve seen a rapid decline in the amount of providers…” Learn how ARHP is helping educators like Matt Scroggins by providing the needed resources to bring more students into the classroom and supply more healthcare providers to rural Arkansas. 📲Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/giGSka9v

This season, we’re especially grateful for the families, hospitals, clinics, community health workers and partners who make rural Arkansas stronger every day. Thank you for the work you do, the compassion you show and the commitment you bring to priding care across our state. From all of us at ARHP, we wish you and your loved ones a safe, healthy and joyful holiday season.

The holidays can be a busy and stressful time, especially when it comes to staying on top of your health. If you or someone you know in rural Arkansas needs help finding a provider, understanding insurance options, or connecting to behavioral health support, ARHP is here for you. Quality care should always be close to home, especially this time of year. 📲For resources, click here: arruralhealth.org/

Hear from Regional Program Director at ARHP, Scott Gann on how ARHP provides scholarships for students training in healthcare throughout different areas of our state and is working daily to close the healthcare provider gap in rural Arkansas. 📲Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gr6BrDHN

Access to quality care shouldn’t depend on where you live. At ARHP, we’re working alongside rural hospitals, clinics, and community programs to keep healthcare local for every Arkansan. Strong communities start with strong access to care. 📲Learn more here: arruralhealth.org/

Meet Matt Scroggins, the EMS Faculty Clinical Coordinator and EMT / Paramedic Instruction at National Park College. Matt is instrumental in advancing education for those who are training to be an EMT or paramedic. Thank you Matt for all you do to empowering those who serve rural communities in Arkansas! 🔗 Explore opportunities and learn more: https://lnkd.in/gaZbFgRB

Discover a career with purpose at ARHP When you join our team, you're not just filling a job, you’re empowering rural Arkansas to access quality healthcare, keep care local, and make a difference in your community. 🌟 Located across 19 rural hospitals and partner clinics 🌟 Meaningful roles in clinical care, administration, outreach and more 🌟 Competitive pay, professional growth, and the chance to really impact lives Explore our opportunities and start your next chapter with ARHP: https://lnkd.in/gaZbFgRB

Meet Seth Wyatt, Senior Service Corps Director for ARHP! Learn how Seth, along with ARHP, is working alongside the Youth Mental Health Corps (tagged) to get more resources to 18 to 24 year olds so they can receive the training they need to enter communities across our state and improve mental health access in rural Arkansas. 📲Learn more here: https://arruralhealth.org/

Become part of a growing movement of rural leaders and changemakers. As an ARHP member, your organization gains a seat at the table, helping shape programs, policy, and services that strengthen rural health across Arkansas and beyond. 📲 Ready to make an impact? Visit https://lnkd.in/g-_H9w2Y to join today.

Ready to make a difference in your community? Explore healthcare careers with the Arkansas Rural Health Academy and find your calling. From diagnosing and treating illness to supporting patients and families, healthcare workers are true heroes in rural Arkansas. Start your journey today and discover your purpose. 📲 Check out our careers here: https://lnkd.in/gK7Sn_cK

Congratulations to ARHP member hospital, White River Health System Inc., on being awarded $509,000 from the Delta Regional Authority for Phase I of its Oncology Center Expansion! This exciting investment will expand and modernize oncology services, improve access to cancer treatment, support local job creation and reduce out-migration of both patients and healthcare professionals.