Mega Doctor News
AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott announced the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will receive $281 million in federal funding for the second year of Rural Texas Strong, a five-year initiative to improve rural healthcare throughout the state.
“This $281 million will deliver critical resources for patients and facilities in rural Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “Providers will recruit and retain personnel, upgrade equipment and facilities, and expand preventative care so rural Texans receive the healthcare they need close to home.”
“Rural Texas Strong laid a strong foundation for improving access to care in rural communities,” said HHS Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth. “We look forward to building on that momentum in year two and continuing to bring healthcare closer to home through trusted local providers who serve their neighbors.”
Rural Texas Strong, the CMS-approved state plan, is 100% federally funded and features six initiatives to help rural communities improve access to healthcare.
HHSC will use a competitive process to allocate funds for initiatives that:
- Reduce chronic disease through prevention, wellness and nutrition services.
- Invest in consumer-facing technology to engage patients on improving their health.
- Deploy artificial intelligence and telehealth services to bridge service gaps.
- Recruit and retain rural healthcare workers through career development. scholarships, relocation payments, and training programs.
- Improve cybersecurity defenses to protect patient data.
- Upgrade equipment in rural hospitals and clinics.
Eligible providers may apply for these initiatives beginning in November. Public notices and procurement opportunities for Rural Texas Strong will be announced through GovDelivery email notifications.
Federal funding is contingent upon meeting all applicable program requirements. For more information, visit the HHSC Rural Health Transformation webpage.
