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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 24, 2026
CONTACT: Baylee.Watts@dss.mo.gov
Missouri Department of Social Services Appoints Joseph Miller to Lead Landmark Rural Health Transformation Initiative
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) today announced the appointment of Joseph (Joe) Miller as Director of the newly established Rural Health Transformation Office (RHTO) within the MO HealthNet Division (MHD). Miller will begin his role on March 30, 2026.
The RHTO was created to provide centralized leadership, coordination, and technical support for rural hospitals, clinics, and behavioral health providers participating in the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). Miller will lead the implementation of Missouri’s federally funded program, which is a five-year initiative focused on modernizing healthcare delivery and improving health outcomes for Missouri’s rural communities.
“Joe brings both the leadership experience and personal understanding needed to serve our rural communities well,” said DSS Director Jess Bax. “As we establish the RHTO, his leadership will help ensure that every Missourian, regardless of where they live, has access to high-quality care.”
Miller has spent his career supporting rural providers, specifically partnering with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers (CCBHCs) to streamline and expand access to essential care.
“Growing up in Northeast Missouri, I saw how essential our local providers are to the backbone of our communities,” said Miller. “I am honored to lead this work. Our goal is to build a system that not only meets today’s needs but is sustainable for the future - keeping Missourians at the center every step of the way.”
As Director, Miller will guide the strategic vision for Missouri’s rural health model, with priorities including:
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Innovative Payment Models: Supporting providers with financial structures that prioritize patient outcomes.
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Strategic Alignment: Partnering with the Department of Mental Health (DMH) and the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) to better align providers, strengthening service delivery, and expanding access for individuals and families in rural Missouri.
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Stakeholder Integration: Coordinating efforts across stakeholder groups, including the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), health associations, and higher education institutions.
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Accountability: Managing a diverse portfolio of RHTP initiatives to ensure measurable impact and transparent reporting.
The Rural Health Transformation Office will serve as the central team coordinating the program's strategy, governance, and specialized expertise required to drive successful implementation across all RHTP initiatives.
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