The Kentucky Office of Rural Health (KORH) presented the Impact Award during the 2025 Kentucky Rural Health Clinic (RHC) Summit in Lexington, Ky., on Thursday, Aug. 14. This year’s award was presented to the Kentucky River Medical Center (KRMC), recognized for its outstanding contributions to advancing rural health in Kentucky.
The Impact Award honors individuals or organizations who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving health and well-being in Kentucky’s rural communities. Established in 2022, the award highlights those who create lasting, positive change by strengthening access to care, building healthier communities, and inspiring innovation in rural health.
KRMC, serving Breathitt, Lee, Wolfe, and Owsley counties, has become a leader in expanding health care access in a region where resources have long been limited. As a designated critical access hospital, KRMC has embraced its mission to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care while ensuring long-term sustainability for the communities it serves.
“Rural communities thrive when hospitals like Kentucky River Medical Center step forward to meet local needs with compassion and determination. From expanding specialty care to investing in diagnostic services, KRMC is making a difference for families who deserve access to high-quality care without leaving their communities. It’s an honor to present them with this year’s Impact Award,” KORH Director Matt Coleman said.
The Kentucky Office of Rural Health congratulates Kentucky River Medical Center on this well-deserved honor and thanks the hospital for its continued commitment to caring for and supporting Kentucky’s rural communities.