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First-Year Rural Health Fund Awards Range From Less Than $100 Per Rural Resident in Ten States to More Than $500 in Eight
This policy watch evaluates state awards through the rural health fund in 2026, the first year of the program. The analysis shows relatively modest variations in total awards this year across states but wide variation in how much states will receive per rural resident.
After approval, Alabama’s rural health plan faces its real test: op-ed
This isn’t about ideology. It’s about practical commitment to the neighbors and towns we all depend on.
Essentia Health-Virginia Clinic welcomes family medicine specialist Dr. Nicholas Vidor
Growing up in International Falls and living and practicing in Cook for the last 11 years, he’s excited to continue working with patients in a rural community.
Idaho to receive $930 million in federal funds to improve rural health care access
Idaho will receive nearly $930 million over the next five years to improve rural health care access and affordability.
North Carolina awarded $213 million to improve rural health amid Medicaid cuts
The federal government has awarded $213 million to North Carolina to help support rural health care.The funding backed by Congressman Chuck Edwards comes from t
Oklahoma lawmakers eye $223M federal funding to reshape rural health care
The one-time investment comes as state leaders warn of shrinking revenues, Medicaid pressures and rising insurance costs.
Georgia getting funds for health care from budget reconciliation bill
Funds for rural health care comes as thousands of Georgians expected to see spike in health insurance premiums.
Rural Colorado hospitals, health centers expected to see $1B in federal investments over next 5 years
The money, which is far more than what state officials had been anticipating to get, will come from congressional Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
How Louisiana plans to spend $208 million in federal funds on rural health care
Louisiana will leverage an anticipated $1 billion in federal funding for rural health care over the next five years by expanding existing training programs and creating new financial incentives for medical professionals to work in rural communities.
Governor Kemp Announces $218.8 Million Award for First Year of GREAT Health Program
Governor Brian Kemp in partnership with the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH), announced in December that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has awarded the State of Georgia $218.8 million for the first of five years of the Georgia Rural Enhancement and Transformation of Health (GREAT Health) […]
NC receives $213 million from CMS for rural health care
"Thanks to Congress establishing this investment and President Trump for his leadership, states are stepping forward with bold, creative plans to expand rural access, strengthen their workforces, modernize care, and support the communities that keep our nation running."- CMS administrator, Dr. Mehmet Oz.
CT to get $154M through federal rural health grant for 2026
CT will receive federal assistance to improve health care and access in rural parts of the state ahead of anticipated cuts to Medicaid.
One Big Beautiful Bill Act complicates state health care affordability efforts
This article first appeared on KFF Health News. As Congress debates whether to extend the temporary federal subsidies that have helped millions of Americans buy health coverage, a crucial underlying reality is sometimes overlooked: Those subsidies are merely a band-aid covering the often unaffordable cost of health care. California, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and five other states […]
Montana Set to Receive $233 Million Through Federal Rural Healthcare Program
A federal healthcare program from The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is providing states with $50 billion spread out over the next five years to improve access and quality in rural healthcare. Passed inside of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) will distribute 50% of its funds […]
US award Massachusetts $162 million for rural health
Massachusetts secured about $162 million in federal dollars to bolster rural health care, part of the first round of funding released in a five-year program.
Wisconsin awarded $200M for rural health care, part of Trump megabill
Wisconsin plans to use the first-year award of $200 million to kickstart its plans to bolster its rural health workforce and invest in new tech.
Feds award Delaware nearly $160 million for rural health expansion
The federal government awarded Delaware $157 million as part of a national program aimed at bolstering rural health care.
Pennsylvania awarded $193 million for rural health care from Trump bill that also cut Medicaid
WASHINGTON — Pennsylvania’s plan to stabilize its struggling rural health care systems will get a $193 million infusion as President...
Utah to get $195 million to improve rural health care, innovate
Critics say the grant doesn’t make up for Medicaid cuts, but they welcome the money and the focus on innovation
Alaska set to receive $272M to overhaul its rural health care system
Alaska was awarded more money than any state except for Texas — and far more per person, roughly $365 per Alaskan.
Vermont receives $195M federal grant for rural health care transformation
The one-time money is among the most per-capita that any state has received.
Iowa wins $209M federal grant to expand, improve rural health care
Iowa gets $209 million to improve rural health care by expanding access, recruiting more professionals and tackling cancer prevention.
Colorado gets $200 million from the feds in rural health care “Hunger Games”
Colorado will receive $200 million in 2026 from the feds to improve rural health care, part of a fund created by the "big, beautiful" bill.
Trump administration rolls out rural health funding, with strings attached
Experts say the funding won't nearly offset the losses that struggling rural hospitals will face from the administration's massive budget cuts.
Trump administration rolls out rural health funding, with strings attached
While every state applied for money from the Rural Health Transformation Program, it won't be distributed equally. And critics worry that the funding might be pulled back if a state's policies don't match up with the administration's.
Federal program awards Massachusetts $162M to address rural health care gaps
State officials plan to use funds for mobile health units, telehealth expansion, and modernizing facilities in 160 rural municipalities.
Ohio to get $200M in federal money to aid rural health care, but feds haven’t yet said how
Ohio will get $200 million in federal funding as part of a 5-year, $50 billion program to bolster rural health care. State plans include expanding child vision services and creating the Rural Healthcare Workforce Pipeline, but guidelines for spending flexibility remain unclear.
Governor Ivey Announces Alabama Secures More Than $203 Million for Rural Health Transformation Program -
MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Monday announced Alabama has officially received its award number from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), formally approving Alabama’s plan and unlocking $203,404,327 in … Continued
Texas to receive $281 million for rural health care
Texas will get the biggest portion of the first rollout of the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program, which was created in tandem with legislation slashing Medicaid funding.
States get first awards from rural health fund
It includes a big award for Alaska, whose lawmakers' support was critical to the bill's passage.
Trump administration launches rollout of $50B Rural Health Fund
The Trump administration on Monday announced the formal launch of its $50 billion rural health fund created through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Beginning next year, states will receive money fr…
CMS divvies up first payments from $50B rural health fund, with an eye toward MAHA goals
The Trump administration on Monday announced the distribution of the first payments from a new $50 billion rural health fund — but not all states are getting equal payouts.
Trump admin doles out billions for rural health
Montana and California will receive near equal amounts in 2026, despite their massive size disparity.
US allots at least $147 million per state for rural health in 2026
The Trump administration will award between $147 million and $281 million to each U.S. state in 2026 under a new rural health transformation program aimed at improving access to care and the quality of services, a senior White House aide said on Monday.
Trump Rural Health Grants Come With Clawback Threat to States
The Trump administration is announcing awards to states from a rural health care fund, with the threat that some of that money can be clawed back if jurisdictions fail to embrace policy initiatives backed by the president.
ND awarded $199M for Rural Health Transformation Program to strengthen care in rural communities | North Dakota Office of the Governor
Gov. Kelly Armstrong announced that North Dakota has been awarded $199 million from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to support the first year of a statewide Rural Health Transformation Program. The funding will strengthen rural health care by improving access, quality and health outcomes for North Dakotans in rural communities over the next five years.
As Missouri stares down Medicaid cuts, it seeks federal rural health funding
The Trump administration’s budget bill included about $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid. As part of an effort to offset those costs, Congress created the Rural Health Transformation Fund, a $50 billion bucket of money that goes to states.
Virginia awaits decision on $1 billion rural health grant
Outdated technology, provider shortages, long travel times to care and high rates of chronic disease are among the issues the application aims to address. To tackle those challenges, the administration proposes directing any awarded funds into four integrated initiatives it has developed.
In 2026, Kennedy’s MAHA vision gets put to the test. Here are 3 issues to watch
In 2026, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health policy changes will start playing out on GLP-1s, dietary guidelines, and rural health initiatives.
The miracle cure for sickle cell is now 2 years old. Most are still waiting.
Despite a Trump administration push, there are few facilities offering the complex treatment in the rural areas where many patients live.
Colorado Politics in focus: the year’s top in-depth cover stories and series
In 2025, Colorado Politics went beyond the daily headlines, delivering in-depth reporting on the major issues shaping the state — from congressional action to legislative proposals to the urban-rural divide and the future of Colorado’s economy. Here’s a look at some of the top cover stories and special projects from 2025: State of the State: […]
Georgia requests $1.4B to transform rural health care
The Kemp administration is applying for a one-time federal grant to be awarded by New Year's Eve to fund the GREAT Health program.
New Mexico Wellness Wire: Rural health care funds
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham last week awarded $20 million in grants to 32 rural health organizations across New Mexico.
Free rural business accelerator launches in Central Valley 2026
Fresno Pacific University’s Center for Community Transformation (CCT) is launching a new program aimed at spurring growth for rural entrepreneurs and small business owners starting in 2026.
Is there a Christmas truce in the Starmer farmer ding-dong?
There’s an ‘early present’ for farmers but tensions between Labour and rural communities remain
Georgia health officials map out $1.4 billion plan for new federal rural health funds
State officials have introduced a $1.4 billion plan to improve rural health outcomes over the next five years under the federal Rural Health Transformation Program created as part of this summer’s budget reconciliation bill. In a 96-page application, officials from the state’s Department of Community Health requested funds to improve access to primary and specialty […]
The politics of the pause: 6 things to know about Trump administration’s suspension of offshore wind
The administration’s decision highlights a growing state-federal conflict over energy policy. It could also rebound by prompting more solar in rural Virginia.
Governors’ Health Priorities in 2025
Through emergency response, behavioral health investments, maternal health protections, nutrition innovations, rural health transformation, and workforce development, Governors have demonstrated that effective governance requires evidence-based policymaking, cross-agency coordination, and sustained political will. Governors confronted complex challenges with innovative solutions grounded in evidence and adapted to local contexts. As highlighted at the 2025 Health and Human Services Policy Advisors Institute, states […]
December 22, 2025: Rural Health Symposium Opens Registration, Announces Call for Abstracts
The Duke University School of Nursing will convene healthcare professionals, educators, researchers, community leaders, and policymakers for a 1-day symposium dedicated to reducing rural health disparities across North Carolina through […]
'I've lived it': Valeria Alarcón pushes for state funding for rural, tribal health councils
"As a woman of color, cancer survivor in this field of work, it feels like all of my life experiences are ... to inform the work that I do —
Bill to improve rural veteran health care sees support from North Dakota providers
The bill from Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) and Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) seeks to make health care more accessible to veterans living in rural areas.
Medical giant Mayo closes 6 rural health clinics in Minnesota there could be more to come
Mayo Clinic Health Systems just closed a half dozen clinics in rural towns and small cities in southeastern Minnesota, and it is consolidating some others, as the giant medical care provider struggles with staffing shortages in rural areas.
Governor awards $20 million to expand rural primary care - 32 health care organizations to strengthen services statewide - Office of the Governor
SANTA FE — Thirty-two rural health care organizations will share $20 million in Rural Health Care Delivery Fund awards to expand primary care services across New Mexico. The fiscal year 2026 awards support projects that strengthen local health care capacity and improve access to coordinated, person-centered care in underserved areas — from tribal communities in […]
National Rural Health Day energizes health care
On Nov. 20, the Nevada State Office of Rural Health hosted National Rural Health Day (NRHD)
Governor Ivey Signs Executive Order Establishing Alabama Rural Health Transformation Advisory Group -
MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday signed Executive Order No. 741 to establish the Alabama Rural Health Transformation Advisory Group. The Advisory Group will advise the governor on the progress, policy development and implementation of Alabama’s Rural Health Transformation … Continued
Rural Health Transformation Fund to improve state's healthcare system
Improving West Virginia's rural healthcare system, that's what $500 million is going towards, with $100 million being allocated each year through the Rural Heal
ECU Health Bertie Hospital recognized with 2025 Performance Leadership Award by The Chartis Center for Rural Health
Award recognizes high-quality care provided to community
CA hires former CDC officials to lead new public health org
Two high-profile former CDC officials have been hired to helm the Public Health Network Innovation Exchange, a new organization about which little is known.
Study: Property tax cuts, elimination would hit Florida’s rural communities hardest
Rural cities already devote most of their property tax revenue to basic services, leaving little room to absorb new tax cuts.
Experts urge caution as Trump’s big bill incentivizes AI in healthcare
Analysts say benefits could be felt in under-resourced rural hospitals but warn against AI as a cost-cutting measure
Health Technologies: Where We Are Now and a Look Ahead to 2026
More than ever before, digital solutions are transforming how health care is accessed and delivered. The potential of health technologies to bring about transformative change is especially pronounced in rural areas where health care challenges such as hospital closures and health workforce shortages are acute.
Essentia Health hosts local lawmakers at St. Joseph’s Medical Center ahead of legislative session
Sandy Zutz-Wiczek, vice president of operations at Essentia, led a tour of the hospital and discussed how lawmakers can help ensure rural communities preserve access to high-quality care
UAMS to provide training for 75 community health workers in rural areas of the state
75 community health workers are slated to receive training by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and the Arkansas Office of Skills Development, as
Early registration for 2026 AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference ends Dec. 12
The early registration deadline for the 2026 AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference is Dec. 12.
With billions on the line, Colorado prepares for the rural health care “Hunger Games”
Colorado is vying against every other state for a share of $50 billion in federal money earmarked for improving rural health care.
Rural Health Providers Could Be Collateral Damage From $100K Trump Visa Fee
Dozens of health care organizations have asked the Trump administration to shield the doctors, nurses, and techs they need to fill shortages from the president’s new $100,000 visa fee for skilled foreign workers. So far, there’s no sign of a reprieve.
A billion-dollar plan to bolster rural health in CT
DSS requested the funds for its 5-year plan from the Rural Health Transformation Program, which is part of Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
New podcast explores health care in rural Georgia
The Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center (GRHIC) at Mercer University School of Medicine has launched season one of Rural Georgia Voices.
Rural America relies on foreign doctors. Trump’s visa fee shuts them out.
The Trump administration’s demand for companies to pay a $100,000 fee to hire an immigrant worker using an H1B visa has created turmoil among rural health providers.
Trump administration's new $100,000 H1-B visa fees could leave rural health care as collateral damage
States battle for rural health funding
States are pledging to enact White House-favored policies for a chance to win bigger shares of a $50 billion rural health fund that Congress and President Donald Trump created in July.
‘Sort of blackmail’: Billions in rural health funding hinge on states passing Trump-backed policies
Democrats and health advocates described the strategy as highly unusual, and some fear it could be wielded to favor political allies.
100K Alabamians could lose health insurance overnight
Alabama hospital leaders and Congresswoman Terri Sewell are warning that a new federal healthcare bill could push many rural hospitals, including one in Wilcox county, into deeper financial trouble.
Vermont seeks $500M grant for rural health care overhaul
Vermont's plan to strengthen rural healthcare and increase access to timely care. The proposal seeks a $500 million federal grant to transform the system.
Q&A: Can the federal Rural Health Transformation Fund save Ohio's rural hospitals?
Ohio's proposal for a share of the $50 billion federal fund looks promising, local health experts say, but the money may not be enough to make up for rural hospitals' financial struggles.
Tracking Applications for Rural Health Transformation Funds
KFF Health News is working to collect and post complete application materials, by state, here and will update this repository as new materials, released in response to public records requests, arrive.
ECU Health Partners With Artisight to Bring Smart Hospital Technology to Eastern North Carolina
GREENVILLE, N.C. & CHICAGO, December 04, 2025--ECU Health, a rural health system serving 29 counties in eastern North Carolina, has partnered with Artisight to introduce Smart Hospital technology across its facilities, starting with five hospitals and expanding to more in the coming year. This new platform will make telehealth services more efficient by expanding specialized care from ECU Health Medical Center to patients in ECU Health hospitals across eastern North Carolina and improve the expe
'Health desert' in rural mid-Missouri sees hope with commitment from Boone Health
Boone Health's commitment to bring emergency care back to Audrain County brings hope for those who felt left behind after the closure of Audrain Community Hospital in 2022.
Colorado seeks at least $500 million in rural health funding from federal Republicans’ megabill
Colorado health officials are seeking at least $500 million in health care funding over five years for rural communities, as cuts to Medicaid and other safety-net services are set to take hold. The funding would...
National organization recognizes LION Mobile Clinic for advancing rural health
Penn State College of Medicine’s LION Mobile Clinic has been named one of Pennsylvania’s 2025 Community Stars by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health.
Delaware works to shore up rural hospitals threatened by Medicaid cuts
Delaware has a plan to transform health care in the state’s rural areas, but is dealing with billions in federal funding cuts.
Meridian Health Plan of Illinois Commits $1.15 Million to Expand St. Louis Area Foodbank Mobile Pantry Program
Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, Inc. (Meridian), a company of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), announced it will provide a $1.15 million grant over the next three years to Food On The Move, a mobile food pantry program by the St. Louis Area Foodbank that brings healthy food to underserved populations and food deserts in urban communities and rural areas in Illinois. This partnership will deliver healthy food and essential resources to underserved communities across Illinois, aligning with Meri
Feds promised "radical transparency" but are withholding rural health fund applications
Feds Promised ‘Radical Transparency’ but Are Withholding Rural Health Fund Applications
Proposals from states that have shared their applications to a new $50 billion rural health program include using drones to deliver medication, installing refrigerators to expand access to healthy produce, and bringing telehealth to libraries, day cares, and senior centers.
CA migrant workers delay medical care during Trump’s immigration crackdown
Fewer immigrant farmworkers in California are showing up at pop-up medical clinics since Trump’s immigration crackdown.
Elon Musk Is Building Out His Next Company Town With Science Center, Gym
The billionaire has a construction boom planned for his rural Texas compound known as Snailbrook.
NC pitches $1 billion plan to overhaul rural health system
State’s proposal for federal funding would create regional hubs, bolster workforce and revive food-as-medicine programs.
People, Politics, and Places fellowship grants students a closer look at rural America
The Hoover Institution’s People, Politics, and Places Fellowship affords students first-hand summer experiences in rural American communities.
4 opportunities for greatness in rural health’s revolution
Done right, this program may be the greatest opportunity state leaders have ever had to improve the health of their rural residents.
How life changed in a rural town that lost its clinic after Trump’s megabill, even if the politics haven’t
As the final hues of autumn linger in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the 200-person community of Churchville, Virginia, is grappling with the loss of its only health clinic.