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Riverland Community College will host a panel discussion titled “The Future of Rural Healthcare” on Wednesday from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Riverland Community College. This event, moderated by Mark Jones, executive director of the Minnesota Rural Health Association, promises to be an engaging and informative session on the evolving landscape of rural healthcare in Minnesota.

Refreshments will be provided starting at 7:15 in the Riverland’s atrium off of the north parking lot.

The discussion will begin with a welcome from Kim Nelson, interim dean of academic affairs and Albert Lea’s campus director.

Those on the panel include the following:

• Rep. Joe Schomacker: A seventh-term Minnesota House member, representing District 21A. He is the Republican lead of the Health and Human Services Policy Committee and an active advocate for rural health.

• Zora Radosevich: director of the Office of Rural Health and Primary Care in the Minnesota Department of Health, with extensive experience in public policy and rural health.

• Chris Wolf: Dean of nursing, health and wellness at Riverland Community College, with a rich background in nursing and healthcare leadership.

• Valerie DeFor: Executive director of the Minnesota State HealthForce Center of Excellence, focusing on developing a diverse and qualified health care workforce in Minnesota.

This event is a unique opportunity for professionals, students and community members to engage in vital conversations about rural healthcare challenges and innovations. The panelists bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives, promising a comprehensive discussion on the future of rural health services in Minnesota.