Summary
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has introduced a $50 billion program to improve healthcare services and infrastructure in rural areas of all 50 U.S. states. The Rural Health Transformation Program will begin in 2026 and aims to help 60 million people by providing states with funding to expand health services and modernize care facilities.
Key Facts
- CMS has launched a $50 billion initiative called the Rural Health Transformation Program.
- The program will start in 2026 and cover all 50 states in the U.S.
- The goal is to enhance healthcare in rural areas, impacting over 60 million people.
- Each state will receive funding, ranging from $147 million to $281 million in the first year.
- The initiative plans to spend $10 billion annually over five years, with funds allocated based on state needs and applications.
- States can use the funds to improve primary and emergency healthcare services, invest in telehealth, and upgrade medical facilities.
- The CMS Office of Rural Health Transformation will oversee the program for accountability and support.
- State strategies will be monitored, with progress discussed at the annual CMS Rural Health Summit.
