Northeastern Pennsylvania Rural Health Summit

Date and Time

• Friday, May 29, 2026  8am - 4pm

Location

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Details

Rural communities continue to face significant health disparities. Hospital closures, workforce shortages, limited access to care, and increasing behavioral health needs have contributed to poorer outcomes and reduced life expectancy. Addressing these issues is essential for improving individual health while sustaining the economic strength and resilience of rural regions.

In response, King’s College will host the NEPA Rural Health Summit in support of the Pennsylvania Rural Health Transformation Plan, which is a regional summit that will bring together healthcare leaders, policymakers, educators, community organizations, students, and advocates to examine the current landscape of rural health and identify practical, collaborative solutions.

This year’s keynote speaker is Dr. Edmund Sabanegh, president of Guthrie, along with guest speakers Dr. Debra Bogan, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health, and Dr. Valerie Arkoosh, Pennsylvania Secretary of Human Services.

Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive workgroups, participants will explore strategies to strengthen the rural healthcare workforce, expand access to services, support aging populations, address mental and behavioral health needs, and leverage innovation to improve care delivery.

To register for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Rural Health Summit, use this link: www.kings.edu/summit