Leaders in health transformation.
About The Rural
Collaborative
Honest sharing is the heartbeat of the Rural Collaborative. Our members are united by a core belief—when we work together, we thrive together. Through open communication and mutual support, we work collectively to advance rural healthcare and strengthen the communities we serve.
Founded in 2003 by eight rural public hospital districts in Washington State, the Collaborative has grown into a powerful network where interdependence drives innovation and value. Members exchange ideas, share best practices, and support one another to deliver high-quality care in challenging environments. Our programs generate meaningful financial benefits, resulting in shared savings and reduced operational costs. Backed by a dedicated staff, TRC members continue to learn from one another, solve problems together, and lead the way in rural healthcare excellence. Year after year, our work proves that collaboration is not only practical, but powerful.
At our 2025 Board Retreat, we committed to these strategic goals:
- Interdependence: Members regularly participate in initiatives to achieve financial savings, increased operational efficiencies, and mitigate external threats.
- Rural Payer Contracting: Establish fair and sustainable agreements between healthcare payers and rural providers, reducing administrative burdens for both parties, creating value and financial viability for members.
- Access to Care: A strong, well-trained, quality rural workforce enhances access to care and improves patient outcomes.
Our Board of Directors
Our Vision
To accelerate the advancement of rural healthcare
- Leverage the synergy and wisdom of our members;
- Harness the value that a network of rural health systems provides; and
- Improve performance of our members and the health of the communities we serve, meeting members where they are.
Our Values
- Integrity – We build trust through our honest discourse and collective work
- Synergy – We are stronger, wiser and more effective together
- Commitment – We are committed to each other and the success of our members
- Innovation – We foster change and endless improvement
Our Purpose
- To support Collaborative members to better serve their communities.
- To overcome the challenges of rural healthcare.
- To take advantage of the opportunities that a collective provides.
- To speak with one rural voice.
