West Virginia Rural Health Conference

The West Virginia Rural Health Association is proud to host the 34th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference, bringing together professionals and partners dedicated to improving health outcomes across the Mountain State.

This year’s theme, Rooted in Rural Health: Successes, Solutions, and Stories, highlights the strength, innovation, and resilience found within rural communities. The conference will take place at the Waterfront Marriott in Morgantown, West Virginia, offering an opportunity to connect, learn, and share impactful work shaping the future of rural health.

We can’t wait to see you in Huntington!

Join WVRHA this year in Huntington to explore best practices for rural health alongside colleagues from across the state and nation. Together, we’ll “Build Bridges as We Amplify Rural Perspectives in Healthcare.”

The 33rd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference, hosted by WVRHA, is the largest gathering of rural health professionals in the state. Join us from November 12th – 14th at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Huntington, WV.

We’re thrilled to connect with everyone this fall in Huntington!

WVRHA is excited to host the 33rd Annual WV Rural Health Conference in Huntington, WV from November 12-14, 2025. 

WVRHA staff may be delayed in responding to emails.  If you need a quick response and are at the conference in-person, please stop by the registration booth to chat with one of our staff members. 

For non-urgent matters, please email info@wvrha.org and a staff member will respond as quickly as possible.

Understand that WVRHA staff may be delayed in their responses after the conference.

If you require immediate assistance, please email info@wvrha.org and one of our staff members will respond as quickly as possible.

Register for the 34th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference

Join us November 11 through November 13, 2026 at the Waterfront Marriott in Morgantown, West Virginia for the 34th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference.

This year’s conference will be held in person only, providing valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and engagement with rural health professionals from across the state and beyond.

We invite healthcare providers, administrators, public health professionals, educators, students, and community leaders to join us for this annual event. Attendees will gain valuable insights, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections that support and advance rural health across West Virginia.

Early bird registration is available through August 14, 2026.

Early Bird Rates:
Member: $375
Nonmember: $500

We encourage you to register early to take advantage of discounted rates and secure your spot at this year’s conference.

Member Registration
Non-Member Registration

Notice
Attendees will be required to create an account on our new digital platform to complete registration. This system allows for streamlined coordination, communication, and management of sponsorship and exhibitor details.

Event & Lodging Information

The West Virginia Rural Health Conference will take place Wednesday, November 11 through Friday, November 13, 2026.

A discounted room block has been secured at the Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place for conference attendees at a rate of 154.00 USD per night. Rooms are available at this rate through October 20, 2026, or until the block is full.

Attendees are encouraged to book early to secure accommodations at the conference rate.

Reserve your room here: Book your group rate for West Virginia Rural Health Conference

Request for Presentations

The West Virginia Rural Health Association is now accepting presentation proposals for the 34th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference.

This call for presentations is for speakers interested in leading concurrent or plenary sessions that highlight innovative programs, best practices, research, and real-world experiences that impact rural health.

We encourage submissions from healthcare providers, public health professionals, educators, researchers, and community leaders who are working to advance rural health across West Virginia and beyond.

All presentations should align with this year’s theme, Rooted in Rural Health: Successes, Solutions, and Stories, and reflect meaningful work that supports rural communities.

Submit an Abstract Here

Submission Deadline: May 29, 2026

Notice
RFP submitters will be required to create an account on our new digital platform to complete registration. This system allows for streamlined coordination, communication, and management of sponsorship and exhibitor details.

Sponsors & Exhibitors

The West Virginia Rural Health Association invites organizations, partners, and stakeholders to be part of the 34th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference as a sponsor or exhibitor. This event brings together healthcare professionals, community leaders, policymakers, and advocates from across the state, creating a unique opportunity to connect with those shaping the future of rural health in West Virginia.

Sponsoring or exhibiting at the conference provides valuable visibility for your organization while demonstrating your commitment to improving rural health outcomes. Whether you are looking to showcase products and services, build relationships, or support meaningful work in rural communities, this conference offers a strong platform to do so.

Why Participate:

  • Connect directly with rural health professionals and decision-makers
  • Showcase your organization’s services, programs, or innovations
  • Build brand recognition across a statewide audience
  • Support efforts to improve access, quality, and equity in rural healthcare

Exhibitor Opportunities:
Exhibitors will have dedicated space to engage with attendees, share resources, and promote their organization throughout the conference.

Sponsorship Opportunities:
A variety of sponsorship levels are available, offering increased visibility, recognition, and engagement before and during the conference.

Additional details, including sponsorship levels, exhibitor information, and pricing, are included in the guide below.

Please note: You must sign up using the link above. We will no longer be receiving sign-ups via email.

Notice
Sponsors and exhibitors will be required to create an account on our new digital platform to complete registration. This system allows for streamlined coordination, communication, and management of sponsorship and exhibitor details.

The West Virginia Rural Health Association (WVRHA) is committed to supporting the professional growth of healthcare and community health professionals.

Continuing Education

The 34th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference offers continuing education opportunities for healthcare professionals across multiple disciplines. Attendees can earn CE credits while engaging with educational sessions, plenary presentations, and interactive workshops designed to improve rural health practice and outcomes.

CE Credits Available For:

  • Dieticians
  • Community Health Education Specialists
  • Psychologists
  • Social Workers
  • Pharmacists
  • Nurses
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Participants will be able to select their CE discipline during the registration process to ensure proper credit documentation.

Important Notes:

  • Participants must attend the full session to receive CE credit.
  • Documentation of attendance will be required for credit issuance.
  • Specific CE details, including credit hours and approval bodies, will be provided closer to the conference.

Enhance your professional development while learning from experts dedicated to advancing rural health in West Virginia.

2026 WV Rural Health Conference Scholarships

The West Virginia Rural Health Association is proud to offer a limited number of scholarships to support students and attendees who demonstrate a strong interest in rural health and need financial assistance to attend the conference. These scholarships provide an opportunity to participate in all three days of the conference, gain knowledge, and connect with leaders in rural health across the state.

Eligibility & Requirements:

  • Applicants must demonstrate an interest in rural health and attest that they would be unable to attend without financial support.
  • Applicants must provide their current residential address.
  • Scholarship recipients must attend all three days of the conference.
  • Recipients are responsible for booking their own accommodations.
  • Failure to attend the conference will result in forfeiture of the travel stipend.

Student Applicants:

  • Must be actively enrolled in a West Virginia college or university and provide proof of enrollment.
  • Scholarship awards will be distributed at the conference during check-in on Wednesday, November 12, 2026. Students who fail to check in will not receive their scholarship check.

Selection Priorities:

  • First-time WV Rural Health Conference attendees.
  • Students selected to present a poster at the conference.

Deadline to Apply: September 18, 2026
Selections expected to be made: October 2, 2026

Apply Here

Notifications will be sent via email to all selected recipients.

2026 WV Rural Health Awards Nominations

Each year, the West Virginia Rural Health Association proudly recognizes individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of rural communities across the Mountain State. The WV Rural Health Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and a strong commitment to improving access to care and advancing health equity in rural West Virginia.

These awards honor those who go above and beyond through direct patient care, community outreach, policy advocacy, education, or innovative programming. Their efforts strengthen rural health systems and uplift the communities they serve. Award recipients represent the heart of rural health, including dedicated professionals, compassionate providers, emerging leaders, and community champions whose work reflects WVRHA’s mission and vision.

Winners are recognized during the WVRHA Annual Conference, where their achievements are celebrated among peers, partners, and leaders from across the state. Join us in honoring those who are moving rural health forward in West Virginia.

General Eligibility and Rules

  • Nominations are open to individuals, organizations, students, residents, providers, and educators who are advancing rural health in West Virginia.
  • No individual or organization may receive more than one award in the same year.
  • Past award winners are not eligible to receive another award in the same category.
  • To broaden recognition, individuals who have received an award within the last five years are not eligible for nomination in that category.
  • All individual award recipients will receive complimentary registration to the West Virginia Rural Health Conference.

View Past Award Winners Here

Award Categories and Descriptions

Nomination Deadline: September 18, 2026

Recognition:
Award recipients will be formally recognized at the Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference.

Nominate Someone Here

Podium and Poster Presentations

The West Virginia Rural Health Association invites submissions for both podium and poster presentations as part of the 34th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference.

These presentation opportunities provide a platform to share innovative programs, research, best practices, and real world experiences that are making an impact in rural health across West Virginia. Submissions are welcome from students, residents, fellows, faculty, health professionals, and community members.

Student, resident, and fellow submissions are eligible for both podium and poster presentations. Faculty, professionals, and community members may submit for poster presentation.

Abstracts may include original research, case studies, or reviews, and both in progress and completed work will be considered. All submissions must follow the required format, remain within the 2000 character limit, and include appropriate ethical documentation.

Podium presentations will be incorporated into the conference’s concurrent session schedule, while poster presentations will be featured during designated networking times to encourage discussion and engagement.

Submission Deadline: September 15, 2026
Selection expected to be made by: October 16, 2026

Selected presenters will be notified via email with additional details. All accepted presenters will share their work in person at the conference, and selected abstracts will be published in the Marshall Journal of Medicine.

All submissions should align with this year’s theme, Rooted in Rural Health: Successes, Solutions, and Stories.

Submit a Presentation Here

Annual Silent Auction at the WV Rural Health Conference

The West Virginia Rural Health Conference proudly hosts an Annual Silent Auction, providing a unique opportunity to support rural health initiatives while bidding on exciting items!

Why Participate?

The silent auction is a key fundraising event that helps support scholarships, community health programs, and advocacy efforts for rural healthcare in West Virginia. By participating, you contribute to meaningful projects that make a real impact on rural communities.

Auction Details

Attendees will have the chance to bid on a variety of donated items, gift baskets, artwork, experiences, and more! The auction will be accessible both in-person and virtually to ensure that all conference participants, whether attending in-person or remotely, can join in the excitement.

How to Donate

We welcome donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations. Popular auction items include: Gift baskets & themed bundles Handmade crafts & artwork Travel & experience packages Wellness & fitness items Unique memorabilia

If you’re interested in donating an item, please visit: https://wvrha.betterworld.org/auctions/34th-annual-west-virginia-rural

How to Participate

  • Visit the silent auction table at the conference to view available items.
  • Scan the QR code at the event to access the online auction platform.
  • Place your bids and track your favorite items throughout the event.
  • Winners will be announced at the end of the conference!

Join us in supporting rural healthcare while bidding on fantastic items at this year’s silent auction.

Stay tuned for details on when the auction site goes live!

Your participation makes a difference!

More information coming soon!

Refund Policy

The West Virginia Rural Health Association understands that plans may change, and we strive to accommodate cancellations and registration transfers whenever possible.

Cancellations:

  • Refunds will be provided at 70% of the registration cost (30% retained to cover administrative fees) for cancellations received on or before October 16, 2026.
  • Cancellations received after October 16, 2026, will not be eligible for a refund.

Registration Transfers:

  • Registrations may be transferred to another individual before October 16, 2026.
  • Transfers must be approved by WVRHA staff. Please contact info@wvrha.org to request a transfer.

We appreciate your understanding as we work to ensure a smooth and well-organized conference experience for all attendees.

Please Note: WVRHA partners with Cvent to provide part of our conference experience in a digital format for in person attendees. By signing up for the conference, I acknowledge that accessing the conference content for the 34th Annual WV Rural Health Conference requires technology meeting the specifications described at the link below. https://support.cvent.com/s/communityarticle/Understanding-Attendee-Hub-Compatibility

No refunds will be offered for incompatible technology. 

Cvent details their platform accessibility at the link below. https://www.cvent.com/en/accessibility   

Register Now for the 34th Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference!

Join healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocates for an engaging conference focused on “Building Bridges: Amplifying Rural Perspectives in Healthcare.”

Registration is Open!
Early Bird Pricing has expired.

In-Person Registration:

  • $550.00 

Please note: WVRHA partners with Cvent to provide part of our conference content in a virtual format. By signing up for the virtual conference, I acknowledge that accessing the virtual conference content for the 33rd Annual WV Rural Health Conference requires technology meeting the specifications described at the link here.

No refunds will be offered for incompatible technology. 

Cvent details their platform accessibility at the link here.

Secure your spot today and be part of shaping the future of Rural Health in West Virginia!

Register now:
Click Here

Not a member yet? Join here before you register for the conference.

For questions or to request more information, please email WVRHA’s registration team here: info@wvrha.org

Hotel Room Block Information for the 2025 WV Rural Health Conference

We are pleased to announce that a special room block has been reserved for attendees of the 33rd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Huntington, WV. To visit their website, click here.

Hotel Information:

Location: DoubleTree by Hilton 1001 3rd Ave, Huntington, WV 25701

Room Rate: $139 (plus applicable taxes) per night

Reservation Deadline: The room block is available until it is full. First come, first serve. Be sure to reserve your room early to guarantee your stay at the discounted rate!

How to Book: To reserve your room, click the link below or call the hotel directly at 1-800-445-8667 and mention the West Virginia Rural Health Conference room block.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK ONLINE

We look forward to welcoming you to Huntington for this exciting event! If you have any questions or need assistance with booking, please contact us at info@wvrha.org

Don’t miss out—book your stay today!

The Request for Presentations (RFP) for the 33rd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference is now closed.

We appreciate the interest and contributions from all applicants.

Conference Sponsorships Now Sold Out

Thank you for your incredible support! All sponsorship opportunities for the 2025 West Virginia Rural Health Conference have been filled.

We are grateful to our sponsors for their commitment to advancing rural health in West Virginia. If you’re still interested in being involved, we encourage you to consider exhibiting or attending the conference.

For questions or to be added to our sponsorship interest list for future events, please contact info@wvrha.org

We look forward to seeing you in Huntington this November!

Exhibit spaces are now full and that option has expired.

Key Dates:

  • Set-Up: November 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM
  • Exhibit Opens: November 12, 2025, at 8:00 AM
  • Breakdown: November 14, 2025, by 3:00 PM

The West Virginia Rural Health Association (WVRHA) is committed to supporting the professional growth of healthcare and community health professionals.

We have applied to offer continuing education credits for the following disciplines:

  • Social Work

  • Nursing

  • Medicine

  • Psychology

  • Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES)

Stay tuned for updates on credit approval and additional details!

2025 WVRHA Conference Scholarship Application

Conference: November 12–14, 2025

Scholarship Applications Are Now Closed

WVRHA offered scholarships for community members and students to attend the WV Rural Health Conference. Four scholarship categories were available:

  • Up to 2 scholarships for community members

  • Up to 10 scholarships for students

  • Mini scholarships for accepted poster presenters

  • Virtual scholarships for online participation

Applications closed on September 5, 2025, and award decisions were announced on September 26, 2025.

We look forward to welcoming our scholarship recipients and all attendees at the 33rd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference.

Celebrate West Virginia’s Rural Health Heroes 

Each year, the West Virginia Rural Health Conference proudly recognizes outstanding individuals, organizations, and future leaders who are making a meaningful impact on rural health across our state. These awards honor dedication, innovation, and the tireless efforts of those committed to improving the health and well-being of rural communities.

Nominations for the 2025 Rural Health Awards are now closed. We look forward to announcing and celebrating this year’s awardees at the 33rd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference, November 12–14, 2025, in Huntington, WV.

To view previous award winners, click here!

Podium and Poster Abstract Submissions Closed

Thank you for your interest in presenting at the 2025 West Virginia Rural Health Conference. The deadline for podium and poster abstract submissions was August 29, 2025, at 3:00 PM EST, and the submission form is now closed.

Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by September 30, 2025.

We appreciate the many excellent submissions received and look forward to showcasing rural health research and projects at the conference in Huntington, WV, on November 12–14, 2025.

For questions, please contact:

Poster Size Requirements:

· Accepted posters should be 3′ x 4′ (36″ x 48″).

· Authors are responsible for printing and transporting their posters. No on-site printing or postal services will be available.

· At least one author must be present during the entire poster session to discuss their work.

· Authors presenting on-site must register for at least the single poster session event.

Attending the Conference

· Presenters attending additional sessions must register for the full conference.

· Full In-Person Scholarships are available.

· A Mini Scholarship for one-night lodging reimbursement on November 12th is available for students presenting in the Poster Symposium.

· The poster selection committee will notify the scholarship selection committee of your abstract acceptance status.

Clarifications for Poster Presentations

1. Only the first author must complete the speaker release form on behalf of all authors for a poster presentation.

2. Presenters must register for the single poster session event, with no charge for presenters attending only this session.

3. Students, residents, fellows, and community members can apply for a scholarship to attend the full conference free of charge by selecting the “Request Scholarship for Full Conference” option on the registration page.

Annual Silent Auction at the WV Rural Health Conference

The West Virginia Rural Health Conference proudly hosts an Annual Silent Auction, providing a unique opportunity to support rural health initiatives while bidding on exciting items!

Why Participate?

The silent auction is a key fundraising event that helps support scholarships, community health programs, and advocacy efforts for rural healthcare in West Virginia. By participating, you contribute to meaningful projects that make a real impact on rural communities.

Auction Details

  • Date: November 12-14, 2025
  • Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, Huntington, WV
  • Bidding: Open throughout the conference

Attendees will have the chance to bid on a variety of donated items, gift baskets, artwork, experiences, and more! The auction will be accessible both in-person and virtually to ensure that all conference participants, whether attending in-person or remotely, can join in the excitement.

How to Donate

We welcome donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations. Popular auction items include: Gift baskets & themed bundles Handmade crafts & artwork Travel & experience packages Wellness & fitness items Unique memorabilia

If you’re interested in donating an item or sponsoring a prize, please contact us at info@wvrha.org

How to Participate

  • Visit the silent auction table at the conference to view available items.
  • Scan the QR code at the event to access the online auction platform.
  • Place your bids and track your favorite items throughout the event.
  • Winners will be announced at the end of the conference!

Join us in supporting rural healthcare while bidding on fantastic items at this year’s silent auction.

Stay tuned for details on when the auction site goes live!

Your participation makes a difference!

How to Access the Cvent Conference App – 33rd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference

We’re excited to welcome you to the 33rd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference, taking place November 12–14, 2025 in Huntington, WV!

This year, we’re using the Cvent digital conference app to help you stay connected, view the agenda, access speaker materials, and engage with other participants — whether you’re a speaker or an attendee.

Please follow these steps to log in and set up your profile:

  1. Download the Cvent App
  • On your phone or tablet:
    • Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
    • Search for Cvent Events
    • Download and install the app
  • On your computer (web version):
  1. Find Our Event
  • Open the app and search for:
    33rd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference
  • Select the event and tap Join.
  1. Log In
  • Enter the email address you used to register for the conference.
  • You will receive a verification code by email or text — enter it in the app to confirm your access.
  1. Set Up Your Profile
  • Add your photo, bio, and contact info (optional but helps networking).
  • Attendees: Explore the Agenda, bookmark sessions, and connect with other participants.
  1. Explore Features
  • Full Conference Agenda – See times, speakers, and locations.
  • Live Updates – Get announcements and reminders in real-time.
  • Networking Tools – Message other attendees, participate in polls, and join discussion boards.
  • Maps & Logistics – Easily find session rooms and exhibitor booths.

Need Help?
If you run into any login or technical issues, contact our conference support team at:
info@wvrha.org

We look forward to seeing you at the conference — and in the app!

Cancellations received by the WV Rural Health Association (WVRHA) on or before October 10, 2025, will be refunded in full, minus a 30% processing fee.

After October 10, 2025, refunds will not be issued. However, registrations may be transferred to another individual if notice is provided to WVRHA by November 7, 2025.

No refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations received after November 7, 2025, for no-shows, or for cancellations after the conference concludes.

To request a cancellation or transfer, please contact info@wvrha.org.

Virtual Registrants Please Note: WVRHA partners with Cvent to provide part of our conference content in a virtual format. By signing up for the virtual conference, I acknowledge that accessing the virtual conference content for the 33rd Annual WV Rural Health Conference requires technology meeting the specifications described at the link below. https://support.cvent.com/s/communityarticle/Understanding-Attendee-Hub-Compatibility

No refunds will be offered for incompatible technology. 

Cvent details their platform accessibility at the link below. https://www.cvent.com/en/accessibility   

Digital Conference Magazine

Enjoy browsing our 2024 edition of the West Virginia Rural Health Conference magazine!

Conference Registration

Space is limited.  If the capacity of this event is reached, WVRHA will utilize a waiting list in the event there are cancellations.

If you register and are unable to attend, you may transfer your registration to a different attendee or request a refund minus a $35.00 processing charge. The deadline to request a refund is October 13, 2024. The deadline to request a transfer of the registration is October 30, 2024. No refunds will be given after October 13, 2024.

Coloring Contest Winners

The West Virginia Rural Health Association and the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine were excited to partner and host a statewide coloring contest to celebrate National Rural Health Day. Winners will be honored at the WV Rural Health Conference in November 2024 and the winning artwork will be displayed at the WV State Capitol on Rural Health Day in April 2025.

Congratulations to our winners!

Prizes include:

  • 1st place: $250 Visa gift card
  • 2nd place: $100 Amazon gift card
  • 3rd place: $50 Amazon gift card

Thanks to our Planning Committee!

WVRHA would like to thank our planning committee for all their hard work and dedication, without you this would not be possible!