Texas moves to strengthen rural health care with federal funding request

Austin, Texas – In a significant step toward improving access to health care for rural Texans, Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has submitted an official application to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The request aims to secure a portion of $50 billion in federal funding made available through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law by President Donald J. Trump.

This initiative, known as the Rural Health Transformation Program, offers federal support over five years to eligible states that file a one-time application. Texas’ submission, titled “Rural Texas Strong: Supporting Health and Wellness,” outlines a broad strategy designed to strengthen rural health systems and support underserved communities throughout the state.

Focused Efforts on Prevention, Access, and Innovation

“Rural health care is critical for the continued health and well-being of Texans across our great state,” said Governor Abbott. “To keep Texas thriving, we must strengthen our rural hospitals, expand access to critical mental and physical health care, and help reduce chronic disease through wellness and nutrition initiatives. Working with our federal partners, we will ensure Texans from every corner of the state have greater access to the quality health care services they need and deserve.”

The HHSC proposal outlines several key strategies to help improve rural health care, including:

• Providing grants for prevention, wellness, and nutrition services to help reduce chronic illnesses.

• Investing in technology that helps patients take control of their own health through user-friendly digital tools.

• Using artificial intelligence and telehealth platforms to close gaps in care, especially in areas lacking specialists or timely services.

• Recruiting and retaining rural health workers with scholarships, relocation assistance, career development, and local training initiatives.

• Enhancing cybersecurity systems in health facilities to keep patient records and sensitive data safe.

• Modernizing equipment and infrastructure in rural hospitals and health clinics to meet today’s medical standards.

Statewide Community Input Shaped the Plan

To shape the Rural Texas Strong application, HHSC gathered insights from residents, officials, and health care professionals. More than 300 written comments were collected through a public survey. HHSC also held regional meetings across Texas and hosted a public comment session in October, where more than 80 individuals voiced feedback on the state’s rural health care needs.

“HHSC is committed to using this opportunity to modernize rural health care throughout Texas,” said HHS Executive Commissioner Cecile Erwin Young. “We look forward to working alongside communities to build a stronger rural health care system for the future.”

Next Steps and Funding Timeline

CMS is expected to notify all participating states about their approved funding levels by December 31. If approved, Texas will launch a competitive selection process to distribute funds to eligible hospitals, clinics, and community organizations.

The Texas HHSC emphasized that these efforts are not just about funding but about building a long-term system that ensures sustainable health care delivery in rural areas.

For further details about the “Rural Texas Strong: Supporting Health and Wellness” application, residents can visit the Texas HHS website.