Rural Healthcare Crisis: Donn Herring Reveals Shocking Truths You Can’t Afford to Ignore!

In a recent episode of the American Health Law Association's (AHLA) podcast, Speaking of Health Law, attorney Donn Herring from Spencer Fane discussed the pressing financial challenges faced by rural health care providers. He was joined by two prominent figures from the health care sector: Lori Wightman, CEO of Bothwell Regional Health Center, and Jon Doolittle, CEO of the Missouri Hospital Association. Together, they delved into how legislative changes—specifically the newly proposed One Big Beautiful Bill Act—may reshape the landscape of rural health care in America.

Herring emphasized that rural health care has emerged as a significant political issue in early 2025, although discussions often remain abstract. “For the most part, that talk has taken place on a theoretical level,” Herring stated. “Lori, Jon, and I were excited to have the opportunity to provide some insight into the realities of rural health care and the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on rural health care from the perspective of the provider.”

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduces potentially transformative changes, including proposed Medicaid cuts and the establishment of new funding avenues through Rural Health Transformation Funds. These legislative elements are crucial, as many rural providers struggle with limited resources and operating budgets. The financial sustainability of these facilities directly impacts access to care for millions of Americans in rural areas, where healthcare options are already limited.

Herring's law practice focuses on a wide range of business and regulatory issues affecting health care providers, including mergers, acquisitions, and compliance with federal regulations like HIPAA. His expertise in these areas uniquely positions him to analyze the implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. He assists hospitals and physicians in navigating the complexities of joint ventures and other integrations essential for their survival and growth.

The conversation on the podcast highlighted not just the legislative challenges but also the practical realities that rural health care providers face daily. For instance, Wightman and Doolittle shared their firsthand experiences with dwindling budgets and the constant need to innovate in service delivery to remain viable. The implications of potential funding cuts and new financial frameworks outlined in the proposed legislation could significantly influence their operational capacities.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is part of a broader national conversation about health care accessibility and equity, particularly in underserved regions. As policymakers grapple with these urgent issues, the perspectives shared by Herring, Wightman, and Doolittle underscore the necessity of grounding legislative changes in the lived realities of those they aim to serve.

Listeners can catch the full discussion and gain deeper insights into the current state of rural health care by tuning into the podcast episode featuring Herring, Wightman, and Doolittle. This dialogue serves as a timely reminder of the critical intersection between health policy and the challenges facing health care providers in rural America.