Hospital leaders from across the state traveled to Des Moines earlier this month for the Iowa Hospital Association’s (IHA) annual Hospital Day on the Hill at the Iowa State Capitol. Many of the listening area’s facilities were represented, including St. Anthony Regional Hospital, Stewart Memorial Hospital, and others, as administrators met with lawmakers and participated in policy discussions focused on issues affecting Iowa’s health care landscape. Throughout the March 11 event, hospital leaders engaged legislators on workforce shortages, access to care in rural communities, and rising health care costs. The annual gathering offers providers an opportunity to share firsthand perspectives on the challenges facing hospitals and clinics, particularly in rural areas. Stewart Memorial CEO Linn Block says, “Hospital Day on the Hill is an important opportunity to advocate for rural health care and ensure our communities continue to have access to high-quality services close to home.” The IHA represents 121 hospitals and health systems across the state and provides advocacy, education, and data services to its members.
