A Message
From Board President,
Katie Reichard Eiken, MPA
Dear MRHA Members and Supporters:
It is a privilege to serve as President of the Missouri Rural Health Association Board of Directors and to work alongside such a passionate and dedicated community of rural health advocates. I remain deeply committed to advancing MRHA’s mission: providing leadership on rural priorities through advocacy, partnerships, and education. This mission continues to guide our work as we champion the needs of rural communities across Missouri.
As we move through 2026, rural health has never been more important. From Jefferson City to Washington, D.C., conversations about healthcare access, workforce shortages, telehealth, Medicaid, and the sustainability of rural providers are shaping the future of our communities. MRHA is proud to be at the forefront of these discussions, ensuring that rural voices are heard and that the unique challenges facing rural Missourians remain a priority for policymakers and stakeholders at both the state and national levels.
Over the past year, MRHA has continued to strengthen its role as a trusted advocate, convener, and resource for rural health. Through legislative advocacy, educational programming, strategic partnerships, and the growth of The Causeway, we have expanded opportunities for collaboration and elevated the visibility of rural health issues across Missouri. Our collective efforts have helped advance policies, foster innovation, and create stronger connections among healthcare providers, community organizations, and rural leaders.
Looking ahead, our focus remains clear: ensuring every rural Missourian has access to the care, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. We will continue advocating for solutions that strengthen rural healthcare infrastructure, address workforce challenges, and improve access to care. Together, we will build on our momentum and continue advancing a stronger, healthier future for rural Missouri.
Your engagement is what makes this work possible. Whether you participate in a webinar, attend a conference, connect with peers through The Causeway, or lend your voice to our advocacy efforts, you are helping turn ideas into action and action into impact.
Thank you for your continued support of MRHA and your commitment to rural Missouri. I am honored to serve alongside all of you as we continue this important work.
With gratitude,
Katie Reichard Eiken, MPA
President, Missouri Rural Health Association
What Drives Us
Our Mission
Providing leadership on rural priorities through advocacy, partnerships, and education.
A Collaborative Approach
Rural health is a shared responsibility,
and we are stronger when we work together.
MRHA works alongside healthcare providers, hospitals, community health centers, public health agencies, educators, policymakers, businesses, economic development organizations, and community leaders to advance rural health priorities across Missouri. We recognize that no single organization can address the complex challenges facing rural communities alone. By bringing diverse voices and perspectives together, we foster collaboration, share resources, amplify rural voices, and develop solutions that strengthen rural Missouri. MRHA is proud to serve as a connector, convener, and collaborator, helping partners work together to build healthier, more resilient communities where every rural Missourian has the opportunity to thrive.
Read our Title VI Policy.