The Kansas Center for Rural Health (KCRH) at the University of Kansas Medical Center — is launching their spring session of Navigating Rural Health Together: Understanding Social Determinants in Rural Kansas.  The three one-hour spring sessions will cover water access, broadband, and transportation across rural Kansas. Each session will feature a researcher and a rural community partner discussing their innovative approach to addressing the needs of their community. Join us as we unpack the challenges and collaborate on solutions to improve rural healthcare access and equity. If you have questions, please contact: KCRH@kumc.edu.

Water Access in Rural Kansas

February 10, 2026 at 2 p.m.

Join us for an engaging session as we explore Water Access in Rural Kansas. From wells and surface supplies to infrastructure and quality concerns, we’ll spotlight how clean, reliable water underpins health, community resilience, and equity. Tom Mueller and Fred Jones, this discussion will dive into both the challenges and solutions—so you can leave with fresh ideas to support water access in your area.

Tom Muellar
Director
Kansas Center for Rural Health
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Fred Jones
Water Resource System Manager
City of Garden City, Kansas
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Broadband Access in Rural Kansas

March 10, 2026 at 2 p.m.

In today’s world, broadband isn’t a luxury—it’s a health and equity imperative. Our Broadband Access in Rural Kansas session will address how connectivity affects telehealth, education, social support, and economic opportunity in rural communities. Donna Ginther from KU and Melissa McCoy from Saline County ’ll learn about barriers and best practices to expand broadband access.

Donna Ginther, Ph.D., M.S.
Assistant Professor
KU Department of Family Medicine and Community Health
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Melissa McCoy
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Transportation Access in Rural Kansas

April 14, 2026 at 2 p.m.

Transportation plays a pivotal role in rural health—whether it’s getting to a clinic, grocery store, or job. In our Transportation in Rural Kansas session, we’ll examine issues like long travel distances, public transit gaps, and creative mobility models. Join us as we connect  and real-world practice to map pathways toward improved access and outcomes.

Kara Cox
Kansas RTAP Director and Communications Manager
University of Kansas Transportation Center
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Nikhila Gunda
Senior Transportation Planner
University of Kansas Transportation Center
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Michelle Coats
Mobility Manager
North Central Kansas
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There is still time to register for our November 18 session.

Housing Access in Rural Kansas

REGISTER FOR Housing Access in Rural Kansas

Nov. 18, 2 p.m.

Join Dr. Kirk McClure as he explores the data and dynamics behind housing affordability and access in rural Kansas. Then, learn from the McPherson Housing Coalition, whose creative and compassionate approach to addressing homelessness is making a powerful impact—restoring dignity, stability, and a sense of belonging one small home at a time.

Kirk McClure
Professor Emeritus of Urban Planning
KU School of Public Affairs and Administration
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Chris Goodson
President/CEO
McPherson Housing Coalition, Inc.
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Karolyn Moore
Director of Supportive Services
McPherson Housing Coalition
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