Rural Economic Impact

Illinois Critical Access Hospitals and small rural hospitals are key economic anchors in their communities, attracting families, employers and investment in their regions. In Illinois, rural hospitals and healthcare systems support more than $13.7 billion in economic activity, often serving as the largest employer and purchaser of goods and services locally.

Beyond their physical walls, rural hospitals contribute to overall community well-being and work to build healthier populations. Rural healthcare leaders play a critical role in connecting social drivers of health, community well-being, and hospital vitality—strengthening both health outcomes and local economies.