Mississippi Rural Health Association

Vicksburg, MS – November 23, 2023 – The Mississippi Rural Health Association (MRHA) honored key individuals and hospitals for their outstanding contributions to rural healthcare at its Annual Conference held November 16-17, 2023, at the Vicksburg Convention Center. The event, which took place on National Rural Health Day, brought together 215 healthcare professionals from across the state to celebrate excellence and commitment to the well-being of Mississippi’s rural communities.

The MRHA presents these prestigious awards to individuals, organizations, and healthcare providers that have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to improving the healthcare landscape in rural Mississippi. Below are the distinguished awardees for 2023:

State Legislator of the Year: Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann

Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann was honored as the State Legislator of the Year for his unwavering commitment to supporting rural healthcare in Mississippi. Throughout his tenure, Lt. Governor Hosemann has been instrumental in advocating for bills aimed at improving hospital infrastructure, increasing reimbursement rates, securing funding for rural clinics, and exploring strategic initiatives to strengthen rural healthcare systems. His leadership has been pivotal in advancing policies that enhance the quality of care for Mississippians in underserved areas.

“Lt. Governor Hosemann’s work in championing rural healthcare is a testament to his dedication to the health and well-being of all Mississippians,” said Ryan Kelly, MRHA Executive Director. “His tireless efforts have positively impacted rural communities, making healthcare more accessible and equitable.”

National Legislator of the Year: U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith received the MRHA’s National Legislator of the Year Award for her continuous advocacy at the federal level to support rural healthcare practices. Senator Hyde-Smith has been a strong proponent of national legislation that addresses the unique challenges of rural hospitals and healthcare facilities, including securing funding for rural hospitals, expanding telehealth access, and reducing the administrative burdens that disproportionately affect rural providers.

“Senator Hyde-Smith’s commitment to advancing rural health policy on a national scale has been invaluable to Mississippi’s healthcare system,” said Kelly. “Her leadership ensures that rural communities receive the attention and resources they need to thrive.”

Mary Ann Sones Distinguished Leadership Award: Patty Harper, MRHF

Patty Harper, a primary consultant with the Mississippi Rural Health Foundation (MRHF), was presented with the prestigious Mary Ann Sones Distinguished Leadership Award for her years of service in supporting rural healthcare providers. Harper has been a trusted resource, offering invaluable guidance on rural health clinic operations, management, and strategic planning. She has also been a key educator, leading numerous workshops and training sessions for MRHA members, equipping them with the tools they need to better serve rural populations.

“Patty’s work has touched the lives of countless healthcare professionals across the state,” said Kelly. “Her dedication to empowering rural health leaders is an inspiration to us all.”

One Rural Award: Dr. Dan Edney

The One Rural Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to rural public health, was presented to Dr. Dan Edney, State Health Officer for the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Dr. Edney has worked tirelessly to enhance public health outreach in rural communities, including personally visiting rural hospitals to identify how MSDH can best support these critical healthcare facilities. His work is helping to bridge the gap in healthcare access for some of the state’s most vulnerable populations.

“Dr. Edney’s hands-on approach and unwavering support for rural healthcare make him a true champion of public health in Mississippi,” said Kelly. “His efforts are directly improving the lives of Mississippians in rural areas.”

Hospital Quality Awards

Each year, the Chartis Group recognizes the top quartile of hospitals in the nation based on quality outcomes from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The following hospitals were recognized for their exceptional quality of care and commitment to patient outcomes:

• Baptist Memorial Hospital – Attala
  Baptist Memorial Hospital – Attala has consistently demonstrated a commitment to providing high-quality care in the heart of rural Mississippi. The hospital’s patient-centered approach has earned it recognition for its excellent clinical outcomes and exceptional patient satisfaction scores. As part of the Baptist Memorial Health Care system, Baptist Attala plays a crucial role in serving residents of Attala County and surrounding communities with vital healthcare services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services.
• Baptist Memorial Hospital – Calhoun
  Baptist Memorial Hospital – Calhoun continues to provide high-quality, compassionate care to the residents of Calhoun County. The hospital’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its state-of-the-art medical services, which include emergency care, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging. Baptist Calhoun’s focus on maintaining high standards of care, while emphasizing patient safety and satisfaction, has helped the hospital stand out in the state’s rural healthcare landscape.
• Baptist Memorial Hospital – Leake
  Baptist Memorial Hospital – Leake has earned recognition for its commitment to improving patient outcomes and providing comprehensive care for the community. From preventive services to specialized treatments, the hospital offers a wide range of services while maintaining a strong focus on quality improvement. The hospital’s dedication to continuous staff education and its investment in modern medical technology have made it a trusted healthcare provider for residents of Leake County and the surrounding areas.
• Covington County Hospital
  Serving the people of Covington County, Covington County Hospital is known for its exceptional care in a rural setting. The hospital provides a range of essential health services, from emergency care to diagnostic services and rehabilitation, all with a focus on quality and patient-centered care. Covington County Hospital is also committed to creating strong partnerships with local healthcare providers, which enhances its ability to offer comprehensive care to its rural population.
• Field Health System
  Field Health System, which includes the Field Memorial Community Hospital, is dedicated to improving access to healthcare in the rural communities of Wilkinson County and beyond. Field Health’s commitment to high standards of care has led to improved patient outcomes, especially in critical care, emergency services, and preventative health measures. The system has also been proactive in incorporating telehealth services to ensure greater access to healthcare for underserved populations.
• Ochsner Watkins Hospital
  Ochsner Watkins Hospital is a critical access hospital in Mississippi that provides exceptional healthcare services in a rural setting. Known for its comprehensive care offerings, including emergency services, general surgery, and rehabilitation, Ochsner Watkins has built a reputation for excellence in patient care. The hospital’s commitment to adopting innovative healthcare solutions, such as telemedicine, has further expanded access to care for rural residents.
• Ochsner Stennis Hospital
  As part of the Ochsner Health system, Ochsner Stennis Hospital plays a vital role in improving healthcare in the rural communities of Hancock County. The hospital has achieved national recognition for its high-quality clinical care and its emphasis on patient safety and satisfaction. With a broad range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments, Ochsner Stennis Hospital is a cornerstone of health in its region, particularly for elderly and low-income populations.
• Ochsner Laird Hospital
  Ochsner Laird Hospital, located in Union, MS, serves as a lifeline for many in rural areas with limited access to healthcare services. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, medical imaging, and rehabilitation. Through its partnership with Ochsner Health, Laird Hospital has continually worked to enhance its services with the latest medical technologies and clinical best practices.
• North Mississippi Medical Center – Pontotoc
  North Mississippi Medical Center – Pontotoc is a key healthcare provider for residents of Pontotoc and the surrounding communities. The hospital’s emphasis on quality care, combined with its community-focused approach, has made it a trusted healthcare facility. From maternity services to emergency care, North Mississippi Medical Center – Pontotoc consistently demonstrates high levels of patient satisfaction and strong clinical outcomes.
• Tallahatchie General Hospital
  Tallahatchie General Hospital, serving the rural community of Charleston, MS, is committed to providing high-quality healthcare close to home. The hospital has been recognized for its excellent emergency care, surgical services, and inpatient care, as well as its strong efforts in addressing chronic health conditions in the community. Tallahatchie General is a vital asset for its rural population, helping to reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for medical care.
• North Mississippi Medical Center – Iuka
  North Mississippi Medical Center – Iuka is dedicated to offering comprehensive healthcare services to the residents of Iuka and surrounding areas. The hospital provides vital services, such as emergency care, outpatient services, and surgery, all with a focus on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. NMMC – Iuka is an essential part of the region’s healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that rural communities have access to the care they need.
• North Mississippi Medical Center – Eupora
  North Mississippi Medical Center – Eupora serves the rural areas of Webster County with excellent medical care. The hospital is known for its personalized, compassionate services, including emergency care, diagnostic imaging, and wellness programs. With a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, NMMC – Eupora is committed to improving the health of its rural community, ensuring that all patients receive the best possible care, regardless of location.

Mississippi Rural Health Fellows

The MRHA also recognized the 2023 cohort of Mississippi Rural Health Fellows for their impactful work in addressing pressing health challenges in rural communities. The cohort focused on two key areas: food deserts in Edwards, MS, and maternal health challenges in Lexington, MS. The fellows presented their findings and proposed actionable solutions to improve access to healthy food and enhance maternal health outcomes in these rural areas.

The 2023 Mississippi Rural Health Fellows include:

• Mary A. Williams, DNP, FNP-BC, MRHF
• Lacey Sones Shaw, MRHF
• Lily Fran Guastella, MD, MRHF
• Yolanda Pruitt, MS, CHES, MRHF
• Jacqueline Carter, MRHF

Their innovative research and community-based solutions offer a roadmap for improving health outcomes in rural Mississippi.

Conclusion

The MRHA’s Annual Conference serves as a powerful reminder of the critical work being done by healthcare professionals and leaders throughout the state to improve rural health. The dedication and passion demonstrated by the awardees underscore the importance of continued collaboration and support for rural healthcare systems.

For additional information about the Mississippi Rural Health Association and the 2023 award winners, please contact Ryan Kelly at 601-898-3001 or email ryan.kelly@mississippirural.org.

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About the Mississippi Rural Health Association (MRHA)
The Mississippi Rural Health Association (MRHA) is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of rural Mississippians by supporting and advocating for rural healthcare providers. MRHA serves as a resource for professionals in rural health, offering educational programs, policy advocacy, and initiatives aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities.

By Anthony Whisenant, policy intern –

The Mississippi Rural Health Association is pleased to report a successful legislative session this year. We have been supporting and tracking multiple bills throughout the year, working with lawmakers and supplying information to assist with successful passage. The following is a description of legislation that passed this year that the MRHA has been watching and supporting:

Mississippi House Bill 365 (top supported bill by the MRHA)

House bill 365 establishes the Mississippi Rural Hospital Loan Program in the state department of health to assist rural hospitals in providing needed direct healthcare services.  This increased funding will allow rural hospitals to offer additional services in their community that are not currently available there now, maintain or increase their staffing levels, and keep up with necessary facility maintenance.  For rural hospitals to be eligible for loans they must submit a financial audit proving they are in a good financial position.  The loan they receive may not be less than twenty-five thousand dollars or more than one-hundred thousand dollars.  The department will determine terms, conditions, and requirements for loans.  This loan program will be funded through a state appropriated $2.5 million in support. Note: the MRHA would love to have seen the loan amount increase to a cap of $1 million per facility, but this is a great start. A big thank you to Rep. Sam Mims for his sponsorship of this bill.

Mississippi House Bill 732

House bill 732 provides legislative intent to assure all Mississippians receive a consistent level of 9-8-8 and crisis behavioral service no matter where they live.  The purpose for the signing of this bill is to save lives of Mississippi residents by providing them better access to services pertaining to the behavioral health crisis.  This bill authorizes the state department of mental health to use technology that is interoperable across emergency response systems in Mississippi and to deploy crisis and outgoing services. 

Mississippi House Bill 1421

House bill 1421 establishes a grant program known as the Arpa Rural Water Infrastructure Grant Program in order to assist rural water associations in the construction of eligible drinking water infrastructure projects.  Upon approval, the department will enter into a project grant agreement with each guarantee to establish the terms of the grant for the project, including the amount of the grant.  In the first fiscal year after the effective date of this act, twenty percent of the funds appropriated to the department for the program will be obligated to projects that have completed plans and specifications, acquired all necessary land and/or easements, and are ready to proceed to construction. 

Mississippi House Bill 1538

House bill 1538 provides additional appropriation to the state department of health for the purpose of funding the Arpa Rural Water Associations Infrastructure Grant Program establishes under house bill 1421.  As a condition of receiving and expending the funds appropriated to the department under this act, the department shall certify to the Department of Finance and Administration that each expenditure of the funds appropriated to the department under this act complies with the guidelines, guidance, rules, regulations and/or other criteria.  It states that the money appropriated by the act will be paid by the State Treasurer out of any money in the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund. 

Mississippi House Bill 1613

House bill 1613 makes appropriation to the Governor’s Office-Division of Medicaid for the purpose of providing medical assistance under the Mississippi Medicaid Law and defraying the expense of that law for the fiscal year 2023.  With this bill, the Governor’s Office – Division of Medicaid will provide statistical and financial reports monthly to the Legislative Budget Office and the PEER Committee.  These reports include an accounting of all funds spent in the medical program, the CHIP program, the Dialysis Transportation program, and each of the Home and Community Based Waiver programs.  The reports will also include an accounting of all funds spent in the administrative program, participant statistics, and any other information requested by the Legislative Budget Office and the PEER Committee. 

Mississippi Senate Bill 2738 (top supported bill by the MRHA)

The purpose of senate bill 2738 is to revise the definition of telemedicine as it is used in the statute requiring health insurance plans to provide coverage for telemedicine services.  It requires health insurance and employee benefit plans to reimburse providers for telemedicine services using the proper medical codes.  It provides that all health insurance and employee benefit plans in Mississippi must provide coverage for telemedicine services to the same extent that the services would be covered if they were provided through in-person consultation.  All health insurance and employee benefit plans in this state must reimburse providers who are out-of-network for telemedicine services under the same reimbursement policies applicable to other out-of-network providers of healthcare services.  A big thank you to Senators Boyd and Michel for their sponsorship of this bill.

Mississippi Senate Bill 2739

Senate bill 2739 requires nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers to have a permit from the state department of health before they may provide NEMT transportation services in Mississippi.  It requires the department to adopt rules providing for applications of permits, issuance of permits, renewal of permits, and revocation of permits.  The bill authorizes the department to provide for the payment of fees for the issuance and renewal of permits.  It requires the department to adopt standards for the operation of vehicles used to provide NEMT transportation services.  The bill also authorizes the department to revoke the permit of or impose fines on any NEMT provider who is found to not follow the requirements and standards set by the department. 

Mississippi Senate Bill 2865           

Senate bill 2865 makes appropriation from the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund to the Department of Mental Health for the purpose of assisting with behavioral and mental health needs.  The legislation intends that no funds under this act should be used to pay employee premium payments.  The bill states that as a condition of receiving the funds appropriated in this act, the Department of Mental Health shall obtain advice from the Office of the Coordinator of Mental Health Accessibility when determining the utilization of funds. 

Unfortunately one bill that did not pass this year was a bill sponsored by both the House and Senate to remove the Medicaid rate freeze, which was originally established in the Medicaid Technical Bill in 2021. This bill made it to conference, but unfortunately was not able to pass out of conference. We are hopeful that this rate freeze will be removed soon.

Note: The Mississippi Rural Health Association would like to thank its policy intern Anthony Whisenant for his work tracking this legislation and providing summaries to the MRHA membership.