Session Details
Date & Time
Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
Name
08. The Rural Workforce Reality: Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining Talent
Session Type
Panel
Speakers
- Brian Floyd, MBA, Chief Operating Officer, ECU Health
- Chris Bjornberg, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer, San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital
- Imee Dahl, DNP, RN, CENP, Operations and Patient Care Executive, Adventist Health St. Helena
- Olivia Sweetnam, MSN, MPH, ACNP-BC, Chief Executive Officer, Grace Cottage Family Health and Hospital
Description
Rural health systems face unique workforce challenges. This panel explores practical strategies for recruiting, developing, and retaining talent in rural communities. Leaders discuss innovative staffing models, community partnerships, incentives, and culture-building approaches that strengthen workforce stability while sustaining access, quality care, and long-term viability in resource-constrained rural settings.


