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Vanderbilt Health, Nashville State partnership certifies 12 Clarksville medical assistants through rural workforce grant
Since launching in 2022, the CPiAH Medical Assistant Program has run 17 cohorts and graduated 186 individuals.
'We're committed to this region' | New hospital expands Margaret Mary Health in rural Indiana
In a time when rural hospitals often struggle to keep doors open, Margaret Mary Health celebrated the opening of a $125 million facility in Batesville Thursday.
Strengthening the rural workforce: East Alabama Health tackles nursing shortage
Apprentice programs at East Alabama Health cover nursing and other crucial roles , including medical coders, scrub techs and CNAs
Nevada invests $50M in rural healthcare with workforce grants
The state of Nevada is investing over $50 million to grow and sustain the healthcare workforce in rural parts of the state.
Essentia Health-Fosston expands access to specialty care
As rural health systems experience mounting challenges, Essentia Health-Fosston is embracing innovation to ensure patients can receive care from expert specialists close to home.
North Dakota launches new round of Rural Health Transformation funding opportunities | Health and Human Services North Dakota
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is launching a new wave of funding opportunities totaling approximately $50.5 million through the North Dakota Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), with several applications now open and additional opportunities to be released over the coming days. Together, they represent another major step in implementing the state's nearly $200 million in Year 1 Rural Health Transformation Program funding to strengthen rural healthcare.
UT health science center expanding Health Hubs program across Tennessee
A $4 million grant will expand TennesseeCares Health Hubs to 13 locations, bringing preventive care to rural areas.
Governor Meyer Announces Funding to Establish Four New School-Based Health Centers in Sussex County
The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services today announced awards to establish four new school-based health centers in Sussex County through the state's Rural Health Transformation Program.
Rural America’s Maternal-Health Crisis Is About to Get Much Worse
Care will be in shorter supply, travel distances will stretch farther, and high-risk situations will more likely result in tragedy.
The Big Beautiful Bill’s Market-Based Health Care Delusion
The Rural Health Transformation Program asks states to build market-style reforms in places where health care markets often do not exist.
Vermont drops ‘AHEAD’ healthcare model; shifts to $195M rural health fund
Vermont is abandoning a federal health care reform program started last year because of changes in federal funding.
Secretary Rollins expands rural small business opportunities
New Cooperative Interstate Shipment program for meat processors with the addition of Georgia.
Essay Penned by UNC Health Physician Published in Annals of Family Medicine
Family doctor draws on his experience to highlight relationship-centered care, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Facing financial headwinds, rural Arkansas hospitals turn to partnerships
There were 40 hospital mergers and acquisitions nationwide in the first half of 2026, one of the highest numbers in the same time span so far this decade.
NC Secretary of State visits Whiteville to meet with rural small business owners
North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall visited Whiteville to meet with small business owners and community leaders as part of her Rural Rise NC initiative, which aims to help small businesses succeed in rural areas.
How telehealth is helping close the healthcare gap in rural Zimbabwe
Virtual consultations are replacing hours of travel, bringing affordable healthcare closer to rural Zimbabweans.
Utah received millions to transform rural health. Will it work?
Utah received $195.7 million in federal funds to transform health outcomes in rural Utah. Will it make a difference?
Tolkkinen: A provocation at a rural Trump protest sparked anger, and then a dialogue
The backlash to the conservative protester’s action could have driven a deeper wedge in Aitkin. Three women wanted to make sure that didn’t happen.
Weiser’s leadership crucial for rural win-win
Attorney General Phil Weiser is going to win the gubernatorial election. That said, Colorado agriculture and rural communities have a 30-year track record of finding the win-win be it for species or industries or habitat. Former Governor Roy Romer possessed what Gov. Jared Polis has demonstrated repeatedly he doesn’t have: the willingness to find compromise […]
Iowa to use $10.5M for rural residency programs to fill doctor gap
Iowa is allocating $10.5 million towards creating rural residency programs as the state faces a physician shortage.
Rural Virginia has been kind to the GOP, yet Trump’s GOP allows rural healthcare to suffer
Policies put in place during President Donald Trump’s second term contribute substantially to the declining availability of medical care in the rural communities of the commonwealth — the same communities that are, by far, Trump’s strongest base of support, writes columnist Bob Lewis.
Trump administration demands hospitals share emergency room records
A tiny federal agency tasked with protecting the public from injuries caused by lawn mowers and coffeemakers is demanding that some of the nation’s biggest health systems turn over detailed, personally identifiable medical records of all patients who seek help at their emergency rooms.
Tracking State Rural Health Transformation Plans
KFF Health News is working to collect and post approved plans, by state, here and this database as more states respond to emails and public records requests for their documents.
Canceled federal grants hit teen pregnancy prevention in Baltimore, rural counties
The federal government's abrupt termination of teen pregnancy prevention funding last month means the loss of more than $3 million to Maryland programs, which are trying to see if they can still offer young people programming for without federal support.
How a rural health merger brought more care closer to home
The combination of Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic helps recruit physicians, improve retention and expand access to care in rural communities.
Questions remain on rural health transformation funds effects on rural hospitals
But experts agree that the fund is not a solution to cuts to Medicaid and broader, systemic challenges of rural healthcare.
Bronin campaign, Iran war votes, TPS holders: CT politics news
Plus: Work stacks up for Congress post-recess, a report condemns "extorded compliance," and CT puts $10M towards rural infrastructure.
WV Superintendent of Schools Launches First AI and Digital Science Framework in the Nation
Charleston, W.Va. - West Virginia Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt will share the state’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Science Framework with educators during professional development sessions at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center, Monday through Wednesday, July 27-29, 2026. The Framework, the first of its kind in the country, outlines an approach for digital science and AI literacy education that equips students with the knowledge, skills and credentials to succeed in this rapidly evolving workforce. It also offers educators a way to increase efficiencies in their work and better personalize learning for students.Earlier this year, Superintendent Blatt appeared before a U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee to share the state’s strategy on addressing the use of AI while also protecting students, their data and educational integrity. The Framework is the result of years of planning, collaboration and development. Digital science encompasses the evolving fields of computer science, AI literacy, data reasoning, cybersecurity awareness, media literacy and the practical application of digital technologies. The framework equips educators to prepare students with the AI and digital science knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the workforce of the future.The West Virginia AI and Digital Science Framework establishes a statewide structure for sustained success. From policy to educator development and student learning, it defines how the state will implement digital science and AI readiness at scale. It serves two priority goals:Respond to the rapidly changing technology landscapeEstablish best practices as a leader for rural models of AI readiness, workforce development and digital science educationWith three statewide commitments, educators will be equipped with understanding and the tools to support implementation. These commitments are:Student Access - Every student will have access to AI literacy learning experiences and digital science instruction before graduationEducator Capacity - All counties will sustain local AI training capacity through a train-the-trainer modelWorkforce Alignment - Every approved pathway will connect to employer demand, postsecondary alignment, and portable or verified credentialsNext week, the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) will launch the framework during three educator and staff development sessions. These sessions include unique opportunities for new county central office hires, the Support, Appreciate, Invest, and Learn (SAIL) Conference, and the West Virginia Middle Schools: Bridging the Future Initiative launch. Each session is designed to meet the needs of K-12 educators, professionals, paraprofessionals, service personnel and others who serve in the education community.West Virginia is a national leader in developing a framework for AI and digital science education. We are determined to elevate our model because it prepares students and educators for the future. Our partners at Prodigy Learning and Microsoft understand this commitment and believe, as do we, that our work has national implications for accessibility and scalability because we are building systems that address learning at all levels that lead to post-graduation success.Michele L. Blatt, State Superintendent of SchoolsAs part of the partnership, Prodigy Learning is providing West Virginia educators, at no additional cost, their in-person and virtual training on all products and the materials required for license renewal.
Recent Coverage Highlights AI Innovation, Rural Health Challenges and Cyclospora Response
A July 21 Detroit News story explored how health systems across the state are using artificial intelligence to improve diagnosis and treatment.
In greater Minnesota, the data center boom is reshaping local politics
The potential for tech warehouses to land in rural towns has triggered newly minted politicians, moratoriums and raucous meetings.
Statewide: Farmers and mental health
Financial stress and a lack of mental health resources in rural areas contribute to the problem.
Rural Health Disadvantages in the United States
Over the last 20 years, rural Americans have been dying at a higher rate than urban residents – and the gap is growing. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture…
Democrats seize on AI data center backlash that's dividing rural Republicans
The fast growth of massive data centers has already upended races for local offices across the country, often uniting conservatives and liberals.
Democrats try to harness data center backlash that's dividing rural Republicans in places like Texas
Gina Hinojosa, the Democratic nominee for Texas governor, is focusing on data centers as a key issue in her campaign against Republican Gov. Greg Abbott
As Maui recovers from devastating fires, a study offers vision for new rural health model
A study of the long-term health impact of the Lahaina wildfires is inspiring a new model for disaster recovery and support.
Colorado Health Department releases data on the barriers rural communities face regarding healthcare
How the feds' healthcare grants could affect Idaho education: Three examples
Idaho has $186 million in federal rural grants to parcel out by the end of October. Workforce development is a “huge part” of the mix, Department of Health and Welfare Director Juliet Charron told EdNews in a recent interview.
HHSC Launching Rural Hospital Officers Academy | Texas Health and Human Services
HHSC is launching a Rural Hospital Officers Academy as part of the agency’s historic investment to strengthen rural health care in Texas.
Questions Remain on Rural Health Transformation Funds Effects on Rural Hospitals
Across the country, states are grappling with how to allocate their portion of funds from the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) created in 2025.
Health care gives Democrats a potent issue for midterm elections in Iowa and beyond
In places like Iowa and rural America, health care cuts and lack of coverage are giving Democrats a potent issue to take votes from Republicans in their bid to retake control of Congress.
Colorado Commission prioritizes feelings over science
The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission voted Thursday and prioritized feelings over science-based management. Meanwhile, Rancher X is the beneficiary of those feelings-driven decisions. Well played, Governor. The newest appointees to the CPW Commission are just the parting gift you had in mind for rural Colorado. The Commission voted Thursday 6-5 to reject CPW staff […]
Colorado Commission prioritizes feelings over science
The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission voted Thursday and prioritized feelings over science-based management. Meanwhile, Rancher X is the beneficiary of those feelings-driven decisions. Well played, Governor. The newest appointees to the CPW Commission are just the parting gift you had in mind for rural Colorado. The Commission voted Thursday 6-5 to reject CPW staff […]
Grant will help Colby-Sawyer College train more regional mental health experts
Colby-Sawyer College received a $1.1 million grant from the Burkehaven Family Foundation to double the size of its master of social work program and provide student support services aimed at addressing the shortage of mental health practitioners in rural areas.
Denny Sanford, philanthropist who gave nearly $2 billion to Sanford Health, dies at 90
Thomas “Denny” Sanford, the Sioux Falls philanthropist whose generosity transformed a regional hospital system into one of the largest rural health networks in the country, died Saturday.
New Baystate Franklin doctors explore rural health needs on county tour
Six new Baystate Franklin family medicine residents toured Franklin County to learn about local community support services.
Will Colorado Gov. Jared Polis’ independent streak define his legacy?
Sometimes aligned with his party and at other times apart from it, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis has spent much of his tenure charting his own course. That independent streak carried through fights over labor policy, rural anger over wolf reintroduction and ultimately his decision to commute Tina Peters’ sentence, a move that reshaped his standing […]
'Not much we don't do' | In rural Ohio, a ministry started its own landscaping business to combat homelessness
Even though it can be hidden, homelessness still exists in small towns across Ohio. We went to a place in Clinton County that's doing something about it, despite a lack of resources.
Chico City Council approves entertainment zones for downtown and Meriam Park
CHICO, Calif. - Chico City Council voted 6 to 0 to approve an ordinance creating entertainment zones in downtown Chico and Meriam Park.The ordinance, taking effect September 18, 2026, will allow customers to carry approved alcoholic beverages and walk around outside within those designated areas."I feel like the downtown could use all the help it could get right now," said Celeste Cramer, general manager of Downtown Chico Business Association. "In the other areas where they have been doing the entertainment zones and throughout California, it has increased their sales. They haven't seen an increase in violence, or tickets, or anything like that. It's a good thing to try out."Numerous other cities around California such as Redding, Sacramento and San Francisco have put their own entertainment zones into effect and have had success.Action News Now stopped by both designated locations and spoke with organizers and bar owners."I'm super excited, I think this is an opportunity for us," said Scott Baldwin, owner of Argus. "We can get a booth at the farmers market. You can order a cocktail from that booth and then we'll have it ready for you at the door as you walk through. Think of it as a picnic situation. You can grab some tacos, you can get a Kentucky Buck. You can sit down anywhere in the entertainment zone and enjoy Argus outside of Argus."Chico's Chamber of Commerce hosted community stakeholder meetings and community engagement sessions to tailor the ordinance to the city's needs as a university town and rural area.The ordinance will allow people 21 and older to walk around with open containers of alcohol within the entertainment zones as long as they have a wristband, stamp or another visible marker showing they're allowed to do so."To us it's more than an ordinance," said Jen Rothenwander, marketing manager at Meriam Park. "It's an opportunity to invest back into the community, and to continue to do what Chico does well – which is to create the spaces for people to stick around and gather, and shop and spend."The Meriam Park entertainment zone will be enclosed by Springfield Drive, Alcott Avenue, Notre Dame Boulevard and E. 20th Street.The Downtown Chico entertainment zone will span mostly from Highway 32 to Lost Park.Chico Chief of Police Billy Aldridge spoke with Redding Police and was informed they had zero problems with their entertainment zone.Chief Aldridge endorses the ordinance in Chico. freestar.config.enabled_slots.push({ placementName: "actionnewsnow-com_blox_yup-rectangle-one", slotId: "actionnewsnow-com_blox_yup-rectangle-one", targeting: { "pos": "yup-rectangle-one" } });
W.Va. utilizing $10.5M in federal funding to address health and recovery programing
State officials announced federal funding has been allocated for health and recovery programming in West Virginia.West Virginia’s Rural Health Transformation pr
On Demand — Health on the Plains Coffee Hour, Featuring Tom Morris
On July 15, KHI hosted Tom Morris, M.P.A., for a discussion on the evolution of federal rural health policy and lessons for today.
Tech Briefs: Regional business accelerators combine for program focusing on agricultural, forestry and rural concerns
Plus: Emerging Tech Conference seeks proposals for this year’s event; professor emeritus at Virginia Tech makes seven-figure donation to support undergraduate research.
Knox County business damaged after dryer catches fire, Rural Metro says
The fire was extinguished within minutes of crews arriving on the scene.
'Plants get sick!': WashU scientists, U. City students research plants together
Biologist Rachel Penczykowski, in WashU Arts & Sciences, is an expert in infectious disease in plants. She conducts much of her research in the field — rural farmland, urban parks and, on this sunny day, a garden bed at Jackson Park Elementary School in the University City School District.
Governor Morrisey Announces $1.8M Investment to Address Critical Healthcare Workforce Shortages
Governor Patrick Morrisey announced a $1.8 million funding opportunity through the state's Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) to help address critical healthcare workforce shortages across West Virginia.
AI data center boom meets rural reality in Edgecombe County
This low-wealth county is facing economic promises and residents’ concerns over fossil‑fuel power, water use and rising utility bills.
Delaware expands payer and provider HIE access under RHTP
With an eye toward prior auth and insurance verification, the First State is using some of its Rural Health Transformation funding to broaden access to the health information exchange, reduce administrative workloads and enhance data usability.
They harvest the nation’s food, but a new rule may strip them of health insurance
Seasonal work. Inconsistent hours. Frequent moves. Cash payments and informal jobs. For farmworkers who rely on Medicaid, these common employment patterns could put their health coverage at risk. It’s a heightened concern for the estimated million-plus farmworkers who are U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, as new work requirements kick in for the federal-state healthcare […]
Handover of Health Commodities
Joint Handover of Health Commodities Speech of Chargé d’Affaires Steve Bremner (…) Thank you for joining us. I am here today to demonstrate how U.S. foreign assistance under President Trump’s America First Global Health Strategy and our bilateral health MOU makes America safer and stronger while helping Madagascar build a more self-reliant health system. Through our bilateral Global Health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in December 2025 with the Ministry of Public Health, our two governments outlined shared priorities and responsibilities, including a strong focus on infectious disease threats and Madagascar’s increasing ownership and co-investment in its own health system. The MOU outlines the structure and terms of U.S. support to Madagascar’s health sector from 2026 through 2030, with a total commitment of $134,305,000 from the U.S. government and $41,216,252 from the Government of Madagascar to work jointly to address malaria, maternal and child health, polio and global health security issues. Stronger health systems help prevent instability and reduce the risk that infectious diseases reach the United States, making both our countries safer. America First foreign assistance is clear and disciplined: It is a tool of strategic engagement, not global charity. Every U.S. taxpayer dollar must show measurable results, reduce long-term dependence on U.S. taxpayer resources, and support greater self-reliance in recipient countries. Support must be efficient and targeted, with zero tolerance for fraud, waste, or abuse. This year, through the U.S.-funded Global Health Supply Chain Program – Procurement and Supply Management project, we are distributing: 989,250 long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, worth $2,000,000 to 63 districts and 1,661 Community Health Centers across Madagascar, with the third and final delivery of these nets having arrived in late June. Through the U.S.-funded Momentum Country and Global Leadership (MCGL) project, we are funding: The full cost of Starlink internet connectivity equipment procurement, installation, and one-year subscription for 31 priority District and Regional Health Offices. Through the U.S.-funded Strengthening Infectious Disease Detection Systems project, we are supplying: 908,523 pieces of critical medical equipment and a modernized digital surveillance system to the Ministry of Public Health. These materials will strengthen health systems, improve response capabilities, and help those most in need of protection from mosquito-borne diseases — particularly malaria, which continues to claim the lives of children and women at an unacceptable rate. Deployed effectively, they will contribute to reducing maternal and newborn mortality in rural and hard-to-reach communities where the need is greatest. In these same underserved areas, Starlink connectivity will play a critical role in enabling the rapid transmission of health data and information to central levels, ensuring that decision-makers receive timely, actionable intelligence and can mount swift, coordinated responses to protect populations. For Americans, this support delivers concrete benefits. Stronger health systems in Madagascar help detect and contain infectious diseases before they spread across borders, protecting American and Malagasy families. More stable, healthier countries can expand trade and economic cooperation with the United States. Our goal is not permanent support; it is temporary, targeted assistance that helps Madagascar save lives while achieving greater self-reliance and independence from foreign assistance. To the health workers and community health agents here that will use the products we’re delivering today: your dedication and skills save lives. Your work exemplifies the kind of local ownership that will enable Madagascar to reduce dependence on foreign assistance and manage the country’s health challenges. This targeted support delivers results today while helping Madagascar build toward a future where it can sustain and expand those health gains independently, ensuring that today’s U.S. support leads to Madagascar’s self-sufficiency. Thank you, Misaotra.
State budget advances plan to reopen Martin County hospital
ECU Health gets funding needed to begin converting the shuttered Martin General facility into a Rural Emergency Hospital.
Rural Passport Program supports small businesses in Western Iowa
The Rural Passport Program encourages visitors to explore Western Iowa’s small businesses by collecting stamps for prizes while supporting local shops and restaurants.
Bringing relief to NC maternity deserts
Program won’t try to eliminate NC maternity deserts, but will find ways to ease burden on rural mothers needing obstetric healthcare.
Managing water with local wisdom and science
Across a narrow watershed in Asakura, a rural city in Fukuoka Prefecture, centuries-old stone channels still guide water through fields and into the river below. Today, those same systems are the focus of researchers at Kyushu ...
Managing water with local wisdom and science
Across a narrow watershed in Asakura, a rural city in Fukuoka Prefecture, centuries-old stone channels still guide water through fields and into the river below. Today, those same systems are the focus ...
County Health Dept. seeks state funds for rural health initiatives
JACKSON, Wyo. — Wyoming’s Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) has opened its application window for funding opportunities related to strengthening rural health care, and the Teton County Health Department (TCHD) is preparing to apply. TCHD Director of Health Travis Riddell told Buckrail that the agency is planning to apply for multiple initiatives, including those related […]
EAST TEXAS POLITICS: Reps. Hefner & Harris weigh in on East Texas groundwater fight
State Rep. Cole Hefner, R-Mount Pleasant, discusses efforts to create a new regional groundwater conservation district. Holland asks Hefner about the process, how the district would be funded and his response to those who worry about adding another layer of bureaucracy and regulation. Hefner also reacts to Gov. Greg Abbott calling for a ban on data centers in rural neighborhoods and whether he thinks a special session should be called to create new legislation related to data centers.
Rural Health in Focus at NGA Health Policy Leadership Forum
Governors’ health advisors collaborate to sustain the rural health workforce, leverage the Rural Health Transformation Program and boost preventive care Charlotte, N.C. – The National Governors Association (NGA) this week hosted its Health Policy Advisors Institute, bringing together leaders from close to 20 states and territories to collaborate on strategies to advance access, trust and […]
Public Health Student Hollie Hagan found her calling in rural Kentucky
A high school internship at the Grayson County Health Department introduced Hollie Hagan to public health and set her on a path she never expected. Now a University of Kentucky College of Public Health student, Hagan is combining leadership experiences and rural fieldwork to prepare for a career serving communities like her hometown.
Over 50M Americans live in counties without a radiation oncology clinic
Between 2018 and 2025, practice sites disproportionately disappeared from rural areas, along with freestanding and community-based settings, ASTRO reports.
OHSU awarded $6.5 million to improve rural health
Six projects are among $97.1 million distributed by the Oregon Health Authority this week.
Revitalizing a rural health center in Togo
Reyneir M., who served as a Community Health Volunteer in Togo, shares a community-led project to acquire equipment and amenities for a maternity ward at a local health center in Togo.
At WVU, a NASA ESCAPADE researcher brings space science down to Earth
WVU researcher Chris Fowler is helping NASA’s ESCAPADE mission send satellites to Mars to study space weather and the Martian atmosphere. Back on Earth, he’s using a NASA early-career award to bring real spacecraft data and coding into rural West Virginia high schools.
Le Pen Launches Presidential Campaign, in a Twist for French Politics
The day after a court decided the far-right leader Marine Le Pen could run for office again, cheers and boos met her campaign kickoff in a rural stronghold.
UA gives high school students look at rural healthcare careers
High school students from rural Alabama explored healthcare careers that can make a meaningful difference in their communities.
Partnership leads to healthier moms and babies, building stronger families
In six rural counties across Indiana, Indiana University Health nurses works with families to navigate maternal and infant health
The politics of data centers
A recent poll revealed more than 60% of people in rural Texas areas oppose data centers being built in their community.
Oregon awards $97.1 million in federal funds for 136 rural health projects in every county
Oregon awarded about $97.1 million in additional federal funding this year to support new projects aimed at improving health care in rural communities.
Ongoing Maternity Care Innovations in California: California Rural Health Transformation (CalRHT) Program
This blog post is part of an NHeLP series about current initiatives to improve maternity care in California. The first blog post is on the California Department of Health Care Services Birthing Care Pathway. The second blog post is on California’s Transforming Maternal Health Model. This, the third and final blog post, is on the California Rural Health Transformation Program. […]
Ongoing Maternity Care Innovations in California: Birthing Care Pathway
This blog post is part of an NHeLP series about current initiatives to improve maternity care in California. This blog post, the first, is on the California Department of Health Care Services Birthing Care Pathway. The second blog post is on California’s Transforming Maternal Health Model. The third and final blog post is on the California Rural Health Transformation Program. […]
ETSU leads national effort to elevate rural voices in healthcare
ETSU’s Center for Rural Health and Research is leading a national study to better understand what healthcare services rural communities deem essential.
IDHW director: Rural health grant may be ‘economic opportunity’ for small communities
Idaho's state health agency wants industry professionals to be ready for infrastructure projects paid for with federal rural health grants.
Newly Launched Initiative Strengthens Delaware’s Health Information Technology Infrastructure
The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) and the Delaware Health Care Commission today announced a new Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) initiative that will support real-time insurance verification and prior authorization across the state.
This rural Colorado hospital is using AI to go after health insurers that ghosted payments. Here’s how.
The promise of modern AI to help Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center recover lost revenues is built on a system that keeps medical data private.
Exclusive: Rural health funds to fix prior authorization
Delaware plans to streamline the insurer pre-treatment claims reviews, widely criticized for delaying timely health care.
Ohio University receives first award from Rural Health Transformation Fund
Ohio University will receive the first funding from the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, according to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s office.
Why Tech Alone Can’t Fix Rural Healthcare
As much as it’s needed, a new $50 billion federal program is too focused on expensive and unsustainable technology that could supplant the basic needs of rural health systems.
Months after Mayo Clinic left, some rural towns adjust to a ‘completely different health continuum’
With impending federal changes to Medicaid, workforce issues and the increasing cost of American healthcare, many rural healthcare providers are in a period of uncertainty.
988 Colorado Mental Health Line to visit SLV
‘Community Roadshow’ is traveling to rural areas to build awareness and take stock of local needs
Statues of US presidents' heads are crumbling in rural Virginia
After a Virginia park closed 2010, one man saved 42 presidential statues from being crushed. Now, they're a massive tourist attraction.
SBA, USDA Sign MOU to Combat Lawfare Against Farmers, Ranchers, and Small Businesses
New Partnership Gives Producers a Direct Line to Report Costly Regulations and Advance Lasting ReformWASHINGTON, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to combat lawfare targeting farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and small businesses. The agreement gives America’s producers a direct line to report the regulations and rules driving up costs and impacting pro
Applications Opened July 1 for Wyoming's Rural Health Transformation Funding
CHEYENNE, WY – Today, the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) announced the opening of Requests for Applications (RFAs) for Wyoming’s Rural Health Transformation Program, a major initiative designed to strengthen healthcare access, improve health outcomes, and support innovative solutions for rural communities across the state. The funding opportunity represents an important step in implementing […]
Gov. Greg Abbott calls for data center ban in rural Texas neighborhoods
Abbott unveiled a sweeping regulatory framework for data centers in early June.
Register to attend Rural Health Initiative series on substance use
Experts from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and WVU School of Public Health will discuss their experiences working with patients who use substances in rural areas and potential areas for future research projects from noon to 1 p.m. July 16 on Zoom.
North Dakota opens wellness equipment funding opportunity for rural hospitals | Health and Human Services North Dakota
From fitness and recovery equipment to mindfulness tools and wellness spaces that help reduce burnout, North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is investing in the health and well-being of rural healthcare workers through a new funding opportunity for rural hospitals.Applications are now open for the Hospital Wellness Equipment funding opportunity through the North Dakota Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), providing resources to help rural North Dakota hospitals create healthier workplaces and support the physical, mental and emotional well-being of their workforce.
Politics: High Cost Of Healthcare And The Political Fallout
Americans are grappling with a rising cost in healthcare. For the first time in five years, fewer than half of Americans can consistently afford healthcare. That’s according to the latest data from Gallup. The cost of healthcare in the US remains higher than any other large, wealthy country. According to a report from the Department of Health and Human Services, five million fewer people are enrolled in marketplace plans for 2026, compared to last year. That’s as average premium costs rose about 58%.With health care costs increasingly becoming a stress for Americans, voters are now making the issue a top priority at the ballot box. And it’s an issue that crosses party and geographic lines. According to new polling from The Century Foundation, 71% of Democrats, 66% of Republicans and 75% of rural voters agree that reigning in hospital costs should be a top priority for lawmakers. While new polling from Ipsos and Axios suggests that a majority of Americans say they’re more likely to vote for candidates in November who will lower their health costs.How will the issue of healthcare shape the midterms? And how are Americans grappling with the cost of their health?Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.
Politics: High Cost Of Healthcare And The Political Fallout
Americans are grappling with a rising cost in healthcare. For the first time in five years, fewer than half of Americans can consistently afford healthcare. That’s according to the latest data from Gallup. The cost of healthcare in the US remains higher than any other large, wealthy country. According to a report from the Department of Health and Human Services, five million fewer people are enrolled in marketplace plans for 2026, compared to last year. That’s as average premium costs rose about 58%.With health care costs increasingly becoming a stress for Americans, voters are now making the issue a top priority at the ballot box. And it’s an issue that crosses party and geographic lines. According to new polling from The Century Foundation, 71% of Democrats, 66% of Republicans and 75% of rural voters agree that reigning in hospital costs should be a top priority for lawmakers. While new polling from Ipsos and Axios suggests that a majority of Americans say they’re more likely to vote for candidates in November who will lower their health costs.How will the issue of healthcare shape the midterms? And how are Americans grappling with the cost of their health?Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.
Dartmouth Health hires new COO
Dr. Jonathan Welch, experienced in academic and rural health, joins Dartmouth Health as COO, replacing Patrick F. Jordan III.
When sushi meets schools in rural Colorado, everyone wins
NATHAN YIP FOUNDATION Greenwood Village By JOANNE DAVIDSON SPECIAL TO COLORADO POLITICS News: Sushi-lovers from Denver and beyond know that they’re in for a treat when the Nathan Yip Foundation hosts its annual Sushi Party. The rush to purchase tickets begins months in advance and when the big day arrives, the event space atop The Dome at AMG is filled to capacity. […]
About 3 million people have dropped Obamacare health coverage after subsidies expire and costs rise
The Department of Health and Human Services suggests the 13% drop is due to a federal crackdown on fraudulent enrollmentut, but health analysts believe it's more likely related to the Jan. 1 expiration of federal subsidies.