The big picture: Rural Oklahoma is in a health care crisis. Nearly 60% of rural hospitals are at risk of closure , with 23 facilities in immediate danger . Each one that closes weakens both community health and local economies.

The fix: Connectivity. Integrating rural hospitals into broader, coordinated health systems can stabilize care and keep doors open.

Why integration matters

An integrated health system links small hospitals with larger networks—sharing resources, expertise, and infrastructure .

– Shared operations cut administrative costs.

– Telemedicine and specialty access bring expert care close to home.

– Coordinated emergency response saves time and lives.

– Tech as a lifeline keeps care local by remotely connecting patients to specialists.

– Pa

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