Health News Federal Funding Cuts Could Impact Already Fragile Rural Health Care

Concerns over fairness, access rise as states compete for slice of $50 billion rural health fund

Among applications and summaries publicly shared by states, themes include workforce development, telehealth, and access to healthy food. Read More

Iowa seeks $1 billion from new federal rural health fund amid Medicaid cuts

Gov. Kim Reynolds' "Healthy Hometowns" plan aims to modernize rural hospitals with federal aid from a new $50 billion fund — but health leaders warn it won't fully offset sweeping Medicaid reductions. Read More

AR seeks money to help health care systems navigate funding cuts

The State of Arkansas will apply for federal money that’s available to help states make up for funding cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. The Rural Health Transformation Program, included in the budget ... Read More

Rural Healthcare | Virginia submits $1 billion application for rural healthcare fund amid Medicaid spending cuts

The state submitted an application for federal funds as Medicaid spending cuts put pressure on hospitals and clinics serving rural communities. Read More

Oklahoma is seeking part of a $50 billion rural health fund. Could it transform care amid other cuts?

Alongside the passage of billions of dollars in Medicaid spending reductions over a decade, Oklahoma is also vying for an opportunity available to all 50 states to fund sustainable rural health care ... Read More

Rural health transformation program won’t make up for federal budget cuts, experts agree

Rural health transformation program won’t make up for federal budget cuts, experts agree A new program touted to give $50 billion in federal funding to rural hospitals won’t necessarily keep rural ... Read More

Arkansas seeks funding as rural hospitals cut services, face financial strain

Arkansas has applied for federal support under the $50B Rural Health Transformation Program as many rural hospitals face service cuts and financial strain. Read More

Mississippi likely to get $500M for rural health, with governor to set spending

At least $500 million is expected to flow into Mississippi over the next five years as a part of a major federal investment into rural healthcare. The funding aims to offset the disproportionate ... Read More

Health care providers eye collaboration as federal cuts loom

This story by Aaron Calvin was first published in the News & Citizen on Oct. 9, 2025. Area health care providers specializing in treatment for mental health-related issues and substance-use disorders ... Read More