Advocacy day will pair policy insight with direct meetings between hospital leaders and district lawmakers.
Michigan’s small and rural hospital leaders will have an opportunity to take their local healthcare priorities directly to policymakers during the 2026 MHA Small and Rural Advocacy Day, Wednesday, Sept. 16, at Lansing Heritage Hall, the Capitol Visitor’s Center.
The event is designed to help hospital CEOs, government relations professionals, board leaders and senior executives share how decisions made in Lansing affect care close to home. Scheduled meetings with district legislators will give participants a focused setting to discuss the funding pressures, workforce needs and operational challenges shaping the long-term sustainability of local healthcare services.
Hospitals are encouraged to bring a small, strategic delegation of no more than two to three participants. A CEO or regional leader can speak to day-to-day operational realities, while a board chair or trustee can provide a community governance perspective. Together, those voices can illustrate the role of hospitals in protecting access to care, supporting local economies and serving as anchors in their communities.
The morning will begin with breakfast and a brief program featuring Michael E. Shepherd, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Health Management & Policy at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. Shepherd’s research focuses on rural healthcare, health disparities, public opinion and policy decisions that shape access to care. His remarks will provide context before participants begin their legislative meetings.
Members are encouraged to register by Friday, Sept. 4. Trustees planning to attend should be identified in advance to the MHA Center of Rural Excellence to support coordination of legislative meetings and preparation of event materials. Legislative meeting schedules and preparation materials will be shared with registered attendees before the event. Members with questions may contact the MHA Center of Rural Excellence.
Phone: (517) 703-8601
Fax: (517) 703-0628
