Rural Hospital Pipeline Partner

At Health Management Associates (HMA), we are dedicated to improving healthcare and human services in rural and frontier communities. By addressing the unique challenges these regions face—such as workforce shortages, access to care, socio-economic barriers, and reimbursement complexities—we empower organizations to enhance health equity, reduce disparities, and deliver sustainable, high-quality care.

Why HMA?

With a team of over 700 experts, HMA specializes in crafting tailored strategies that address the multifaceted needs of rural communities. Our services focus on:

  • Rural-Specific Workforce Solutions: Developing strategies to attract, retain, and support healthcare professionals in underserved areas.
  • Access to Care and Telehealth: Expanding access to vital health services through telehealth and transportation solutions.
  • Behavioral Health Integration: Supporting mental health and substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery.
  • Addressing Social Determinants of Health: Tackling health-related social needs to reduce disparities and improve overall community well-being.
  • Community Leadership and Development: Collaborating with local organizations to strengthen community health and leadership capacity.

A Proven Partner in Rural Healthcare

HMA understands the complexities of delivering quality healthcare and social services to rural populations. From addressing transportation challenges to leveraging Medicaid and Medicare programs, our team works alongside local organizations, law enforcement, social services, and state agencies to support rural and frontier communities.

Our Impact

Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF): HMA is working with HCPF to perform dynamic heat mapping as part of a three-phase project focused on home and community-based services (HCBS) and Medicaid. This includes:

  • Developing tools to close provider gaps.
  • Identifying regions for reimbursement structure changes.
  • Recommending strategies to expand rural provider networks and avoid care deserts.

Texas State Office of Rural Health (SORH): HMA supported SORH by leading a three-year strategic plan, including:

  • Conducting needs assessments and environmental scans.
  • Creating work and evaluation plans for SORH and Flex grant programs.
  • Assessing rural hospital telemedicine readiness and recommending value-based payment models.

Client Testimonial

“It has been an absolute pleasure working with HMA on the Opioid Settlement Funds project. You guided us deftly through a methodical and intentional process with a clear focus on results. You have a unique ability to both diffuse and validate the tensions that typically arise whenever you bring a community together to make decisions about a big pot of money.”
— Elise Jones, Director, Lake County (CA) Behavioral Health Services

Comprehensive Expertise for Rural and Frontier Communities

HMA’s deep knowledge across healthcare policy, regulation, and operations ensures effective solutions for:

  • Revenue cycle optimization.
  • Managed care contracting.
  • Payment system reforms.
  • Long-term care services.

Our commitment to addressing social determinants of health, integrating behavioral health services, and providing financial sustainability makes HMA a trusted partner in rural and frontier healthcare. Let us help you strengthen your community and achieve lasting impact.