Advocating for the Future of Rural Healthcare

As a rural, independent Critical Access Hospital, Wayne HealthCare is committed to ensuring our patients and communities have access to high-quality care close to home. Through advocacy, collaboration, innovation and community partnerships, we are working with healthcare leaders and policymakers at the local, state and national levels to strengthen the future of rural healthcare.

Wayne HealthCare Advocacy in Action

Advancing rural healthcare through advocacy, collaboration, and engagement with local, state, and national leaders.

Advancing Rural Access Through Innovation and Community Partnerships — June 2026
Expanding access to advanced surgical care while strengthening community partnerships and resources to address local health needs.
Engaging State Leaders and Advancing Rural Care — March 2026
Continuing conversations with Ohio leaders while bringing national healthcare insights back to strengthen care in our rural community.
Celebrating Rural Health and Engaging Ohio Leaders — December 2025
Recognizing National Rural Health Day while engaging state leaders on issues important to rural communities.
Continued Advocacy and Funding Update — September 2025
Highlighting continued advocacy efforts and funding priorities that support rural healthcare.
CEO Advocating in Washington, D.C — June 2025
Elevating rural hospital priorities and advocating for policies that support access to care.
Advancing Rural Healthcare Through Advocacy and Leadership — March 2025
President & CEO Jeff Subler represented Wayne HealthCare in Washington, D.C. and joined members of the leadership team at the AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference to engage with rural healthcare leaders and advance priorities important to rural communities.

Beyond advocacy, Wayne HealthCare continues taking strategic action to strengthen access, sustainability and high-quality care for the communities we serve.

Wayne HealthCare's Journey to Critical Access Hospital Status

Wayne HealthCare's transition to Critical Access Hospital status reflects a thoughtful, strategic process focused on strengthening long-term sustainability and preserving access to high-quality care close to home. We are sharing our journey and timeline to provide insight for other rural hospitals exploring their own path forward.

What Critical Access Hospital Status Means for Our Patients

As a Critical Access Hospital, Wayne HealthCare provides essential inpatient and outpatient services in a rural setting. This designation helps support local access to care and strengthens our ability to continue serving patients close to home.

Choosing a Medicare or Medicaid Health Plan
Review important information to consider when selecting a health plan and confirming access to Wayne HealthCare services.

Strengthening Rural Care for the Future

Strengthening Partnerships and Resources
Wayne HealthCare builds relationships with elected officials, advocacy organizations, healthcare partners, and community leaders to elevate rural healthcare priorities and strengthen resources that support access to care.

Positioning for Long-Term Stability
Through strategic planning, thoughtful partnerships, and continued investment in local care, Wayne HealthCare remains focused on long-term sustainability while serving as a trusted healthcare resource for Darke County and the surrounding region.

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Background: Rural Hospital Funding and Medicaid

In June 2025, Wayne HealthCare was included on a national national list of hospitals identifying rural hospitals considered potentially “at risk” under proposed Medicaid funding changes. Wayne HealthCare responded by providing context about our organization, financial position and continued commitment to serving our community.

Read the full press release here.

Policy and Legislative Updates Affecting Rural Healthcare

Policy decisions at the state and federal levels can directly affects influence health access, funding, and hospital operations. Wayne HealthCare remains engaged in understanding what these changes mean for the hospital, patients and community at large.

Ohio State Budget (FY 2026–2027)

Governor Mike DeWine recently signed the new state operating budget into law. This budget includes funding and policy changes that directly affect hospitals, particularly those serving rural areas like ours. From workforce development to infrastructure planning, several components of this budget support the ongoing delivery of high-quality care in local communities.

Stay Informed

Wayne HealthCare will continue advocating for rural hospitals, patients, and communities while keeping you informed as important developments unfold. Thank you for trusting us to care for you and your family. We are proud to serve our community and help strengthen the future of rural healthcare.

Media Inquiries
Wayne HealthCare leaders are available to provide perspective on rural healthcare access, Critical Access Hospital sustainability, community partnerships, rural healthcare innovation and other issues affecting rural communities.

Media Contact:
Terri Flood, MHA
Vice President of Business Development and Marketing
937-547-5704 | terri.flood@waynehealthcare.org