NRH News, Staff Highlights

Rural Hospital Stabilization Program

Posted March 9, 2026 • 4 min read
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Newman Regional Health Selected for National Rural Hospital Stabilization Program  

Newman Regional Health has been selected as one of only eight hospitals nationwide to participate in the highly competitive Rural Hospital Stabilization Program, a federal initiative designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability of rural hospitals. More than 117 hospitals applied, making this a significant national recognition of Newman Regional Health’s leadership, commitment, and potential. 

The program—funded by the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy within the Health Resources and Services Administration—provides participating hospitals with comprehensive technical assistance and targeted support at no cost.  

Through this initiative, Newman Regional Health will receive hands-on guidance from nationally recognized rural health experts, focusing on strategies to strengthen healthcare delivery amid the challenges faced by hospitals across rural America.  

“This opportunity affirms both the strength of our organization and the importance of enhancing healthcare access in our region,” said Cathy Pimple, CEO of Newman Regional Health. “Being selected among a small group of hospitals nationwide allows us to partner with national experts to proactively address the forces impacting rural healthcare and ensure our community continues to receive high-quality, local care.” 

As part of its participation, the hospital will undergo a comprehensive set of financial and operational assessments to help inform action plans for expanding or introducing new service lines that meet community needs. The program also provides funding for operational, and equipment costs associated with these service line efforts. 

Eight hospitals participating in this year’s cohort will learn together, share experiences, and build a national network of peer organizations facing similar rural healthcare challenges. 

Participation in the Rural Hospital Stabilization Program supports Newman Regional Health’s ongoing efforts to keep care right here at home for Lyon County and surrounding rural communities. The hospital serves as a critical access point, providing emergency services, inpatient care, obstetrics, specialty services, and charitable care. 

As part of the program, Newman Regional Health has also received funding to support a new Community Engagement Champion role. This position is dedicated to strengthening community relationships, leading outreach and marketing efforts, and highlighting the hospital’s impact on the region. Saylor Middleton has been selected to serve in this role and began this month. 

National program leaders have begun formal engagement with Newman Regional Health leadership and the Board of Trustees, launching a multi-year collaboration focused on long-term stabilization and community benefit. 

Saylor Middleton

“Our attitude has always been one of looking for opportunity,” said Don Hill, Board Member for Newman Regional Health. “The timing couldn’t be better as we are seeking to become a stronger regional resource.” 

Learn more about the Rural Hospital Stabilization Program at ruralcenter.org/programs/stabilization. 


About Newman Regional Health: Newman Regional Health is a community-owned hospital serving Emporia and the surrounding counties in east central Kansas. Recognized as a Level IV Trauma Center, Newman provides award-winning, 24/7 care to patients of all ages through a comprehensive range of services including emergency medicine, surgery, orthopedics, cardiology with a PCI-accredited Cath Lab, obstetrics and gynecology, laboratory, and primary care. The hospital also features a respected inpatient acute and medical rehabilitation department. Guided by a mission to improve community health through high-quality care and a vision to be a trusted regional provider, Newman Regional Health is considered a top community hospital in Kansas.  

For more information contact: Kacie Hastings Director of Marketing & Public Relations 

(620) 343-6800 x22614  Khastings@newmanrh.org www.newmanrh.org

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