Title: Rural Hospitals Band Together to Survive in an Era of Healthcare Consolidation In recent years, rural hospitals have been struggling to stay afloat amidst increasing financial pressures and the rise of large healthcare systems. However, some are finding solace in a new approach – clinically integrated networks (CINs). These collaborative groups allow independent rural hospitals to share resources while maintaining their independence from larger health systems. A prime example is Southwest Healthcare Services in Bowman, North Dakota, which joined the Rough Rider Network along with 21 other independent rural hospitals in the state. The Rough Rider Network has successfully negotiated better prices for a mobile MRI unit that visits their facilities each week. This not only saves money but also ensures residents of these small communities have access to essential medical equipment without having to travel long distances. The network’s ability to combine patient rolls allows them to participate in value-based care contracts, which are becoming increasingly popular as healthcare providers shift away from fee-for-service models towards more holistic approaches focused on improving overall health outcomes for patients. The significance of these CINs cannot be overstated. As larger health systems continue to consolidate and swallow up smaller hospitals, it is crucial that independent facilities find ways to band together and pool their resources. By doing so, they can not only survive but also thrive in an ever-changing healthcare landscape. From a historical perspective, this trend towards collaboration among rural hospitals reflects the broader shift towards value-based care across the United States. As payers move away from traditional fee-for-service models and instead focus on outcomes and quality measures, providers must adapt by working together to share best practices and optimize patient care. Looking forward, it will be interesting to see how these CINs evolve over time. Will they continue to grow in size and influence? Or will smaller networks emerge as more effective models for collaboration among rural hospitals? Regardless of the answer, one thing is clear: clinically integrated networks represent a promising strategy for helping independent facilities navigate the challenges of today’s healthcare environment while ensuring that patients in remote areas receive the care they need.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/09/02/nx-s1-5519257/rural-hospitals-independent-health-networks)
#rural
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