About Us   The Illinois Rural Health Association (IRHA) was organized in 1989 to improve access to health care for rural Illinoisans. The IRHA is a collaborative association whose mission is to strengthen health systems for rural residents and communities through advocacy, education, networking and leadership. The association is composed of individual, organizational and student members interested in providing leadership on rural health issues. IRHA’s diverse constituency includes individuals concerned with rural health, health care providers and administrators from both private and public settings, state and local government leaders, researchers, educators, consumer groups, consultants, insurance and employer representatives. IRHA maintains strong relationships with the Illinois Department of Public Health, Center for Rural Health and other state, public and private associations that advocate for improved rural health. IRHA also is a member of the National Rural Health Association State Association Council. Goals of the IRHA Advocate for the health interests of rural residents in public and private policy issues. Foster public and private partnerships to improve rural health. Support the work of other health interest groups in their efforts to improve rural health. Develop and strengthen leadership skills in rural health. Provide educational resources for rural health professionals and students. Enhance public awareness of rural health issues. Provide networking opportunities for people interested in rural health. Strengthen the capacity of the organization to support its mission. IRHA’s Charter Members and Past Presidents Through the years, many individuals representing agencies and organizations interested in improving the status of rural health and the availability of health care throughout Illinois have given tirelessly of their time and talents to assure the success of IRHA. We recognize the contribution of time and talent from the charter members and past presidents of the association without whom there would be no IRHA. Charter Members Nola Gramm Al Grant Cliff Hickam George O’Neill Jack Taylor Past Presidents 1990-1992 Jack Taylor 1992-1993 Nola Gramm 1993-1994 George O’Neill 1994-1995 Pat Schou 1995-1996 Joanne CHezem 1996-1997 Barbara Dallas 1997-1998 Mary Catherine Ring 1998-1999 Paul Galligos 1999-2000 Richard Wansley 2000-2001 John Lopes 2001-2002 John Record 2002-2004 Greg Chance 2004-2006 Sheldon Keyser 2006-2007 Pat Bickoff 2007-2009 Roger Holloway                 >> Organizational By-Laws   >> Policies   >> Annual Report   >> Contact Directory      IRHA offers three types of memberships:     individual, organization or student.     To apply, download an application     Then mail to:                Illinois Rural Health Association             310 E. Adams             Springfield, IL  62701     We look forward to working with you!