King’s College Welcomes State Officials and Regional Healthcare Leaders for Northeastern Pennsylvania Rural Health Summit

In response, King’s College, on Friday, May 29, 2026, 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.

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.

“More than three million people call rural Pennsylvania home, and their resilience is undeniable,” said Justin Beaupre, assistant professor, health care administration. “But resilience should not mean navigating growing challenges alone. From workforce shortages and limited access to care to economic barriers and an aging population, rural communities are at a critical moment. This Summit is about partnership; bringing leaders together to listen, collaborate, and take meaningful steps toward stronger, more sustainable rural communities.”

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.

The Summit underscores King’s College’s commitment to community engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of future healthcare leaders. The NEPA Rural Health Summit aims to foster cross-sector partnerships and contribute to healthier, more resilient rural communities throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.

The NEPA Rural Health Summit is made possible through the support of event sponsors, including the Pennsylvania Rural Health Association and the William G. McGowan Charitable Foundation, Moses Taylor Foundation, and The Wright Center.

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

The event will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., located at King’s College Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center.