News Release: Minnesota awarded $193 million for first year of Rural Health Transformation Program

Minnesota awarded $193 million for first year of Rural Health Transformation Program The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) will be awarded more than $193 million for rural health care across our state.  This first year of Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) investments from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) includes base funding distributed to approved states as well as significant additional funds recognizing Minnesota's innovative plan to stabilize and strengthen health care delivery in rural communities. In 2026, all 50 states will receive first-year awards from CMS. The funding will support strategic investments in new technology tools to bring care closer to home for rural residents; improve health outcomes for Minnesotans with or at risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic kidney disease; and expand the rural health care workforce through education and training pathways. Funding will also be used to enhance technology-enabled care delivery, including mobile and community-based services, strengthen provider partnerships, and bolster the financial stability of rural providers through targeted investments in technology and data infrastructure. "With rural Minnesota facing unprecedented access and funding challenges, this award comes at a crucial time," said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. "It is an important investment in our rural communities, and we are excited to begin working with our partners to advance access to high-quality care, improve outcomes and ensure sustainable services in Greater Minnesota for years to come."   Minnesota's approved plan was built on extensive collaboration with rural community stakeholders, hospitals and health systems, safety net clinics, Tribes and local public health agencies. MDH's application was submitted on Nov. 4 and asked for $1 billion over five years for an average of $200 million per year. The application reflected input from more than 40 stakeholder meetings and nearly 350 public responses; state officials will continue engaging stakeholders when the implementation process begins in early 2026.   The Rural Health Transformation Program, established under H.R.1(Public Law 119-21), provides up to $50 billion nationwide over five years to support innovative rural health initiatives. States should receive more details from CMS on funding awards in the coming days.   Additional details and insights about Minnesota's specific strategic RHTP initiatives is available on MDH's Rural Health Transformation Program website. -MDH-  Media inquiries: Andrea Ahneman   MDH Communications  651-201-5195 andrea.ahneman@state.mn.us You can update or cancel your subscription at any time by editing your personal profile. You will need your email address and your password (if you have selected one). P.S. If you have any questions or problems please contact subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com for assistance.  STAY CONNECTED:   MDH on X     MDH on Facebook     MDH on LinkedIn   MDH on Instagram   This email was sent to stevenmagallanes520.nims@blogger.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Minnesota Department of Health · 625 Robert Street North · St. Paul MN 55155 · 651-201-5000