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State to Apply for Federal Funds to Improve Health Care in Rural Washington
The Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) is preparing to apply for funding from the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), which was established under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law in July 2025. The program provides $50 billion in funding to help improve health care access in rural communities across the country.
RHTP will provide $10 billion annually from 2026 to 2030, with funding allocated based on each state’s rural population and health facilities. Washington state’s application is being developed by HCA, in collaboration with the departments of Health (DOH) and Social and Health Services (DSHS), and with support from the Governor’s Office.
Program Requirements and Eligible Activities
To qualify for funding, states must submit a Rural Health Transformation Plan that addresses several required components, including:
- Improving access to health care services for rural residents, including hospitals and providers.
- Improving health outcomes for rural populations, particularly through prevention and chronic disease management.
- Prioritizing technology to support data-driven care models and improve service delivery.
- Strengthening partnerships between rural hospitals and health providers to improve care and financial stability.
- Supporting workforce development, including recruitment and training for rural clinicians.
- Ensuring financial sustainability of rural health systems, including strategies to prevent hospital closures.
The application will focus on addressing these needs while fostering economic opportunity in rural health care and utilizing emerging technologies for better care outcomes.
Seeking Input from Partners and Stakeholders
A critical part of developing the state’s RHTP application is gathering input from stakeholders, including health care providers, community organizations, and rural residents. Washington state encourages all interested parties to share their ideas, project concepts, and insights by August 29, 2025. Responses can be submitted in written format (limited to 10 pages) or in slides.
For more information on the program, including how to submit input and additional resources, visit the Rural Health Transformation Program page.
