Rural Hospitals Form Clinically Integrated Networks Across Eight States

Over 150 independent rural hospitals across eight states have formed clinically integrated networks in the past three years to maintain independence and negotiate with payers. The most recent is Missouri's Show-Me High Value Network, comprising 23 hospitals. These networks aim to achieve scale, share data, and strengthen contract negotiations while avoiding acquisition by larger health systems or managed care organizations. The trend reflects rural providers' strategy to remain viable amid industry consolidation.

Managed Care