Ken Banta Releases New Substack Article on Leadership and the Future of Rural Healthcare

Ken Banta, Founder and CEO of The Vanguard Network, has published a new Substack article titled “Leadership at the Last Mile: Navigating the Crisis and Hope in Rural Healthcare.” Drawing on insights from a recent gathering centered on the documentary Doc Albany, the article examines how leadership choices directly shape access to care in rural communities across the United States.

Banta explores the widening gaps in rural healthcare, where hospital closures, provider shortages, and outdated reimbursement models are leaving millions without reliable access to basic services. While technology offers promise, from AI-assisted diagnostics to telehealth, the article argues that tools alone are not the solution. Real progress depends on leadership that prioritizes people, execution, and follow-through at the community level.

The piece offers a compelling perspective on why the “last mile” of healthcare delivery is both the hardest and most consequential. It challenges leaders across healthcare, policy, and technology to rethink priorities and commit to solutions that truly reach those most in need.

To read the full article on Substack, click here.

About The Vanguard Network

The Vanguard Network is a leadership community and advisory platform that helps senior executives sharpen foresight, strengthen performance, and achieve impact. Through forums, exchanges, and programs, Vanguard convenes leaders across industries to share challenges and solutions in a confidential, collaborative setting.