The Illinois Rural Health Association (IRHA) was organized in 1989 to improve access to health care for rural Illinoisans. The IRHA is a collaborative association whose mission is to strengthen health systems for rural residents and communities through advocacy, education, networking and leadership. The association is composed of individual, organizational and student members interested in providing leadership on rural health issues. IRHA's diverse constituency includes individuals concerned with rural health, health care providers and administrators from both private and public settings, state and local government leaders, researchers, educators, consumer groups, consultants, insurance and employer representatives. IRHA maintains strong relationships with the Illinois Department of Public Health, Center for Rural Health and other state, public and private associations that advocate for improved rural health.