Arkansas Launches Major Funding for Rural Health Improvements

LITTLE ROCK, AR. - Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced the start of a new program to bring better healthcare to people living in rural parts of Arkansas. The state is making $209 million available to start, with the goal of improving health services in areas that don't have enough medical care.

This program, called the Rural Health Transformation Program, was created thanks to a large bill passed by President Donald Trump. Initially, $55.6 million will be given out through an effort known as THRIVE. This part of the program focuses on expanding telehealth (seeing doctors remotely through video), making emergency medical services stronger, and using technology to monitor patients from home.

State officials plan to announce more funding opportunities in the next three months. They expect to give out the full $209 million by the fall. Governor Sanders and the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration believe the state could receive over $1 billion in total funding for this program in the next five years.

"Many people in Arkansas live in rural areas, and these funds will help make sure everyone living there can get the important medical help they need," Governor Sanders said.

Jim Hudson, the state's Secretary of Finance and Administration, added that the program could lead to lasting improvements in rural healthcare, including new ways to deliver care, like mobile health units.

The state developed four main goals for the program after getting ideas from healthcare workers, colleges, and community groups. Besides THRIVE, these goals include improving how different healthcare services work together, training more healthcare workers, and promoting healthy living.

Other initiatives under this program include PACT, which aims to bring specialized care and preventative check-ups to rural communities; RISE AR, which will help train and keep healthcare professionals in rural areas; and HEART, which focuses on better nutrition, physical activity, and managing long-term health issues.

Many types of organizations can apply for this funding, including rural hospitals, clinics, emergency services, universities, and non-profit groups. More details about applying are available on the state's Rural Health Transformation Program website.

This announcement is part of Governor Sanders' broader effort to improve health across Arkansas, which also includes initiatives to support new mothers and provide free breakfast to public school students.