In this episode of the Regional Hospital Voice, host Mark Craig interviews Aaron Herbel, CEO of Mercy Hospital in Moundridge, Kansas.

Aaron shares his unconventional path into healthcare leadership and discusses the unique challenges rural hospital CEOs face, including financial pressures, staffing shortages, and complex regulations. A key focus is Mercy Hospital's conversion to a Rural Emergency Hospital designation, which transformed their operating margin from -20% to +2%, enabled new services like a walk-in clinic, and improved staff retention. Aaron also advocates for policy changes, particularly allowing swing beds in Rural Emergency Hospitals to better serve rural communities.

Learn more about Mark's advocacy work HERE.

Check out Aaron's work at Mercy Hospital HERE.

Apply to be a guest on the show HERE.

In the inaugural episode of The Regional Hospital Voice, host Mark Craig explains the podcast's mission: amplifying the stories of regional and rural hospital leaders across America. Inspired by witnessing the devastating closure of a small Georgia town's hospital, Mark draws on 20+ years in revenue cycle management to highlight critical challenges facing rural healthcare: workforce shortages, rising costs, and insurance company interference. The podcast aims to feature honest conversations with hospital CEOs and CFOs, focusing on solutions, advocacy, and innovations like AI. Mark invites listeners to suggest guests who are making a real difference in their communities.

Learn more about Mark's work at Write-Off Warrior HERE.

Connect with Mark on LinkedIn HERE.

Apply to be a guest on the show HERE.