KHA Honors Representative Scott Sharp as a 2025 Legislative Hero

KHA Honors Representative Scott Sharp as a 2025 Legislative Hero

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

There are pivotal moments in the life of a community when leadership and service converge—moments that remind us why advocacy matters and how one person’s commitment can uplift thousands. One of those moments came to life last week at UK King’s Daughters Medical Center as the Kentucky Hospital Association (KHA) honored Representative Scott Sharp as a 2025 KHA Legislative Hero. This recognition is not only a tribute to Representative Sharp’s unwavering dedication to health care in the Commonwealth—it is a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and vision shared by our local hospitals, communities, and those who serve them.

Founded in 1929, the Kentucky Hospital Association is a vital force in the state’s health care ecosystem. Headquartered in Louisville, KHA represents Kentucky hospitals, integrated health systems, and related organizations, all united in their mission to sustain and improve the health status of our citizens. More than just an advocacy group, KHA is the strategic voice that helps shape the future of health care in Kentucky—advancing solutions, influencing policy, and ensuring that every community, no matter how large or small, has access to high-quality, affordable health services.

KHA’s mission is clear: to be the leading voice for Kentucky health systems in improving the health of our communities. Its vision is equally ambitious: to transform the health landscape to make high-quality care more affordable and accessible for the people of Kentucky. These aren’t just aspirational statements—they are principles brought to life every day by members, leaders, and elected officials working together for the greater good.

Representative Scott Sharp, who serves the 100th District and sits on the House Health Services Committee, is one of those leaders. Known for his down-to-earth approach and commitment to community well-being, Sharp has become a respected figure in Frankfort—not for seeking headlines, but for his tireless efforts behind the scenes to support hospitals and the people they serve.

Jim Musser, KHA’s senior vice president of policy, explained why Representative Sharp was a natural choice for this year’s award: “His constant communication with KHA, thoughtful, data-driven questions, and concern for Kentucky’s hospitals make him stand out as an exceptional public servant.”

Indeed, Representative Sharp has worked closely with UK King’s Daughters Medical Center, demonstrating a deep understanding that a healthy community is built on strong, well-supported local hospitals. Whether fighting to maintain funding, advocating for rural health care access, or ensuring that policies reflect the realities hospitals face every day, Sharp has remained steadfast in his support.

Despite his achievements, Sharp approached the honor with humility. During the presentation, he shared, “I’m a work horse; not a show pony.” That simple statement perfectly encapsulates his leadership style—focused on outcomes, not accolades. It is this attitude, combined with his actions, that make Representative Sharp a trusted partner to hospitals and a hero to those they serve.

The KHA Legislative Hero Award is not given lightly. It is reserved for lawmakers who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to health care in Kentucky—those who listen, learn, and act on behalf of patients, providers, and communities. Representative Sharp joins a distinguished group of individuals whose leadership has left a lasting mark on the Commonwealth’s health care landscape.

In recognizing Representative Sharp, KHA also celebrates the collective effort of health care professionals, administrators, and community members who advocate for better care every day. KHA’s values—vision, responsiveness, adaptability, integrity, and passion—are more than words on a page. They are the foundation of a statewide movement to improve lives and uplift communities.

Geographically, KHA operates through four distinct districts—Blue Grass, Cumberland, Ohio Valley, and Twin Lakes—which ensure that the diverse voices and unique challenges of Kentucky’s regions are heard and addressed. These districts allow members to engage locally, network with peers, and influence the Association’s work from the ground up. It is this deeply connected structure that allows KHA to remain responsive and rooted in the real-world experiences of Kentucky’s health care providers.

As hospitals face mounting challenges—from workforce shortages to rural hospital closures—having informed, committed legislative partners like Representative Sharp is more important than ever. His recognition as a KHA Legislative Hero is more than a personal milestone—it’s a celebration of the trust, collaboration, and shared purpose that define Kentucky’s approach to health care advocacy.

The honor bestowed upon Representative Scott Sharp reflects not just a moment of recognition, but a movement of progress. It celebrates a leader who works tirelessly to ensure that hospitals are equipped to provide the care Kentuckians need and deserve. It honors a community that values access, compassion, and resilience. And it reminds us all that when we stand together—with integrity and passion—we can transform the health of our state, one life at a time.

As we look ahead, let this moment inspire continued commitment to the mission of KHA, to the well-being of our communities, and to the vision of a healthier Kentucky for all. With champions like Representative Sharp and the collective strength of KHA and its members, we are building not just a better health care system—but a stronger, more united Commonwealth.