Attorney General and Secretary of Health Attend Hospital Gala

Tahlequah, Oklahoma — Northeastern Health System and the Tahlequah Hospital Foundation are strengthening their partnership to champion rural healthcare transformation, ensuring patients across northeast Oklahoma have continued access to high-quality, innovative care close to home.

The renewed collaboration follows powerful remarks delivered at the 2026 Hearts of Gold Gala by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond and Secretary of Health Clay Bullard, both of whom underscored the urgency and importance of protecting rural healthcare systems.

Attorney General Drummond, a native of rural Oklahoma, emphasized that thriving communities like Tahlequah are the exception rather than the norm when it comes to access to high-quality rural healthcare. He noted that of Oklahoma’s 81 rural hospitals, nearly half are financially vulnerable, with more than 20 at immediate risk of closure. Creating dangerous gaps in access when distance separates patients from care.

“Healthcare isn’t just a policy issue — it’s personal,” Drummond said. “If we are going to build a stronger and healthier state, we must start by listening to people on the front lines.”

He pointed to Northeastern Health System as a model for innovation and collaboration, particularly its partnerships within the region and its commitment to forward-thinking rural healthcare leadership.

Bullard echoed those sentiments, highlighting the state’s focused effort on Rural Health Transformation and strategic investment in sustainable healthcare delivery. He emphasized that Oklahoma has received significant federal funding dedicated to healthcare innovation and that institutions like Northeastern Health System are actively pursuing these opportunities to expand and modernize services.

“In my role, I am focused on Rural Health Transformation and how we can best serve Oklahomans in rural communities,” Bullard said. “We want to see collaboration, innovation, and demonstrated commitment to strengthening rural healthcare.”

The Tahlequah Hospital Foundation plays a critical role in this mission by supporting capital improvements, technology upgrades, workforce development, and strategic initiatives that enhance access and quality of care.

Together, Northeastern Health System and the Foundation are committed to:

• Strengthening financial sustainability for rural healthcare services

• Investing in advanced technology and infrastructure modernization

• Supporting frontline healthcare workers and provider recruitment

• Building collaborative partnerships that reduce regulatory barriers and encourage innovation

Leadership from both organizations affirmed that rural hospitals are not just healthcare providers — they are economic engines and lifelines for their communities. When rural healthcare thrives, communities attract businesses, retain families, and improve overall quality of life.

By aligning local philanthropic investment with statewide transformation efforts, Northeastern Health System and the Tahlequah Hospital Foundation are positioning northeast Oklahoma as a leader in rural healthcare innovation.

About Northeastern Health System

Northeastern Health System is a comprehensive healthcare system serving Tahlequah and surrounding rural communities with emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and specialty services.

About Tahlequah Hospital Foundation

The Tahlequah Hospital Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing healthcare excellence through philanthropy, community engagement, and strategic partnerships supporting rural healthcare access.