The Mississippi Rural Health Association proudly hosted the 30th Annual Mississippi Rural Health Conference from November 19 to 21 in Flowood, drawing more than 280 attendees from across the state. The event highlighted the strength, innovation, and collaboration that continue to define rural healthcare in Mississippi. With 32 exhibitors, multiple networking events, and a robust lineup of expert speakers, the conference served as a major gathering point for hospital leaders, clinic administrators, policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals committed to improving access and outcomes in rural communities.
The conference opened with a special Rural Health Golf Tournament, giving participants an enjoyable opportunity to connect informally before the main sessions began. Attendees also benefited from a comprehensive pre conference workshop led by Joanie Perkins, who provided detailed guidance on updating Rural Health Clinic policy and procedure manuals in preparation for evolving regulatory expectations. On Thursday, the Mississippi Maternal and Child Health Conference featured sessions on maternal mental health, telehealth supported maternity care, and early childhood screenings that addressed hearing, nutrition, and developmental needs. These sessions emphasized evidence based strategies designed to improve outcomes for mothers and children throughout the state.
Main conference sessions delivered a strong focus on current rural health priorities and future opportunities. One of the most anticipated presentations was the National Rural Health Update delivered by Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer of the National Rural Health Association, who provided invaluable insight into national policy trends. Additional highlights included an update on the Mississippi Rural Health Transformation Fund, a legislative panel with Senator Kevin Blackwell and Representative Sam Creekmore, a hospital leadership panel featuring four Mississippi hospital executives, and a rural health clinic panel led by two seasoned rural health clinic professionals. The closing keynote by Dr. Kollin Napier explored the expanding role of artificial intelligence in rural healthcare settings and its potential to strengthen patient care and operational efficiency.
A major highlight of the conference was the annual Awards Banquet, where outstanding leaders and organizations were recognized for their contributions to rural health. Representative Trey Lamar was honored as State Legislator of the Year, and US Senator Cindy Hyde Smith received the National Legislator of the Year Award. Toby Butler received the Mary Ann Sones Distinguished Leadership Award, as well as special recognition for his service as President of the Mississippi Rural Health Association. Greg Gibbes was presented the One Rural Award for his significant work in unifying and strengthening Mississippi’s rural health landscape. Several hospitals were also recognized with the Mississippi Rural Health Day Hospital Quality Award, including Baptist Memorial Hospital Attala, Baptist Memorial Hospital Calhoun, Baptist Memorial Hospital Leake, Ochsner Watkins Hospital, Ochsner Stennis Hospital, Ochsner Scott Regional Hospital, North Mississippi Medical Center Pontotoc, Tallahatchie General Hospital, Tippah County Hospital, and Franklin County Memorial Hospital.
Throughout the three day event, networking remained a central theme, with opportunities built into every part of the agenda. The Mississippi Rural Health Day Reception, the exhibit hall, poster judging activities, and numerous breakout discussions created meaningful spaces for attendees to collaborate, learn from one another, and develop new partnerships. With its strong attendance, diverse educational offerings, and recognition of exceptional rural health leaders, the 2025 Mississippi Rural Health Conference successfully celebrated both the progress achieved and the ongoing commitment to strengthening rural healthcare across Mississippi.
Mississippi Rural Health Association 