Who we are

Rural communities face a healthcare crisis. Hospital closures, workforce shortages, and limited access to technology leave millions without the care they need.

The Rural Health Innovation Alliance (RHIA), a collaborative effort between the Mayo Clinic, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and community leaders, creates a "sandbox" – a unique ecosystem where healthcare innovators can test and scale groundbreaking solutions.

RHIA strives to help build resources for rural healthcare:

  • For Providers: Access innovative tools and resources to enhance patient care.

  • For Innovators: Collaborate with leading institutions to bring your solutions to market and impact lives.

  • For Patients: Experience improved access to quality care closer to home.

Together, we are transforming rural healthcare, ensuring everyone can access the care they deserve.

Visit our FAQ Page to learn more

Our Leadership Team

  • Ken Bahk

    EMAIL
    Co-Founder
    Health Equity Innovation Partners

  • Mike Carney

    EMAIL
    Interim Provost
    UW-Eau Claire

  • Sara Carstens

    EMAIL
    Operations Manager
    Mayo Clinic NWWI

  • Cara Kollwitz

    EMAIL
    Education Administration Coordinator
    Mayo Clinic, NWWI

  • Kate Merton

    EMAIL
    Executive Director
    Health Equity Innovation Partners

  • Tim Nelson, MD/PhD

    EMAIL
    Reginal Director of Innovation
    Mayo Clinic NWWI
    Co-Foundation and CEO of HeartWorks

  • Kimera Way

    EMAIL
    President Emerita
    UW-Eau Claire Foundation

Our Mission

Improve rural health through the development of a regional sandbox for testing new solutions and scaling them across the US.

Our Vision

Through regional collaboration and partnership, the Chippewa Valley, WI is the Rural Health Epicenter in the US.

Our Values

  • Equity in healthcare access

  • Community-driven innovation

  • Collaboration and partnership

  • Sustainability and scalability