Federal officials announced $10 billion in grants to all 50 states as the second year of the Rural Health Transformation Fund begins, targeting stronger rural health care amid projected Medicaid cuts.
Texas received the largest award of almost $282 million. Alaska, Montana, California and Oklahoma followed with sizable grants.
Congress created the program in response to concerns about Medicaid reductions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed by President Donald Trump, which health research organization KFF estimates will cause rural areas to lose about $137 billion.
CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz said states have already put the resources to work bringing better care closer to home. The agency requires states to test and grow approaches that remain sustainable after the five‑year fund ends.
Rural health leaders say the infusion of federal dollars is welcome but will not be enough to offset Medicaid cuts. Democrats, now controlling both chambers of Congress, aim to repeal the law, pending President Trump’s signature.
Source: newhampshirebulletin.com
