Accessible Podcast S5E11 - Rural Health & Disability with Libby Trammell

What happens when healthcare systems are designed without considering the realities of rural communities? In this episode of the Accessible Podcast, hosts George Gotto and Amelia Reighard sit down with Libby Trammell, Community & Digital Advocacy Manager at the Missouri Rural Health Association (MRHA), to explore the state of rural health in Missouri and what it means for people with disabilities. Drawing from MRHA's newly released 2026 Rural Health Needs Assessment, Libby shares data-driven insights about healthcare access, workforce shortages, hospital closures, transportation barriers, and the unique challenges facing rural Missourians with disabilities. The conversation also explores how policy decisions—including proposed Medicaid changes—could impact rural healthcare systems, why disability inclusion must be part of rural health transformation efforts, and how advocates can engage in meaningful policy conversations at the local, state, and federal levels. Plus, learn about The Causeway, MRHA's statewide online community connecting rural healthcare providers, advocates, students, and community leaders to share resources, solve problems, and strengthen rural systems across Missouri. Episode Highlights: Key findings from Missouri's 2026 Rural Health Needs Assessment Disability trends and health disparities in rural communities Healthcare workforce shortages and hospital closures Transportation and access barriers for rural residents Medicaid policy changes and potential impacts The importance of preventive care and care coordination Rural health advocacy and legislative engagement The Causeway and other resources for rural professionals Resources in this episode: Missouri Rural Health Association Website: mrhassociation.org/ 2026 Missouri Rural Health Needs Assessment: mrhassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/26-Needs-Assessment_lowres.pdf Rural Health Transformation Information: mydss.mo.gov/mhd/rural-health MRHA Bill Tracker: mrhassociation.org/advocacy-and-policy/ Find your legislators: www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member The Causeway: community.mrhassociation.org/home Email Libby: [email protected] Frameworks Institute: Rural Scholars Program: Acronym Guide:   FQHC: Federally Qualified Health Center DD Act: Developmental Disabilities Act UCEDD: University Center for Excellence Developmental Disabilities LEND: Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Interview Transcript: For more information about UMKC-Institute for Human Development, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ihd.umkc.edu